Trust yourself.

That’s something I’ve got to remind myself quite often. Such is the case as I stand atop a drop-in leading up to a smooth 20-stair handrail at an apartment complex in Bellingham, WA. I’m repeating that simple, two-word phrase in my head, over and over. Still, part of me doesn’t feel entirely convinced.

What if I clip my feet and taco the rail? What if I come off early and land awkwardly on the concrete stairs, or slam into that looming wooden post just left of the runout? Those very real possibilities could lead to season-ending injuries, or worse. On the flipside, I’ve got to remember how long I’ve been working toward this opportunity. My first legit street rail in the great state of Washington; my first real handrail in years. Despite potential consequences, it’s time to make or break.

We often ask ourselves, “What could go wrong?” Well, truthfully, plenty of things. That’s why it’s up to each of us to focus on more positive outcomes—the only way they’ll ever come to fruition.

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