Trying new things is wonderful. Sometimes you will fail, but other times you will succeed. This builds character. Through perseverance, you will become a better person. This school year, I have tried a few things new for me. They were challenging and at times I didn't think I would be able to accomplish them.
My first new challenge was to climb on top of a monkey bar set and go across it on top. The first time I that I attempted to give it a try, I simply looked at it, shook my head, and made an excuse that I was too tired from running and that I would do it next time. The second time that I attempted to try, I climbed the first three bars to prepare myself to push my body to the top. I stood on the top bar for a few minutes getting the nerve. I finally got up but again, froze, waiting to get my nerve to crawl across the top. 10 minutes later, I did it, and my feet were back on the ground. The third time that I attempted it, my success was much greater because I completed it in just 5 minutes. Since then, it has been a breeze.
My second challenge was top-rope, indoor rock climbing. This turned out to be an unknown, soon-to-be challenge. I got suited up in my harness and shoes, hooked into the auto-belayer and quickly shimmied up the "easy" rock wall. Well, I got to the top in no time, but that is where my challenge presented myself. I was afraid to let go. I mean, I was up 3-4 floors in the air, right? I counted to 3 to let go. 1-2-3...I didn't let go. I gripped the rocks tighter. After about 5 minutes, my arms were really getting weak and everyone in the gym was now crowded around to encourage me to just let go and were yelling tips up to me. Finally, I determined that enough was enough, and I counted to 3 and then let go to repel back down. Once I got back on the ground and experienced the thrill of climbing up and repelling back down, I was hooked! I now try harder and harder "paths" up to the ceiling. I don't always make it, but I keep trying.
The challenge that I am working on now is to run 5 miles without changing pace to walk. This one is going to take a lot of work. I was able to run 1 mile without a problem. I even got up to 3 miles yesterday. However, that took much more effort not to quit. I will continue working on challenge and will keep you posted.
Below, write about personal challenges you are working on or challenges that you have accomplished.