100 Days Without Fear: One Woman Takes The Challenge

What scares you the most? Is it riding a mechanical bull? Bungee jumping? Living on $5 a day? Getting a Brazilian wax perhaps? Well one brave New Yorker challenged herself to living a 100 days completely fearless, and the results will surprise you. Michelle Poler, a New York based blog writer, created 100dayswithoutfear.com. She realized that fear was, in some ways, holding her back in life. In order to break through these self-inflicted restrictions, she challenged herself to do 100 things she finds terrifying. One of the first challenges, living in the heart of the city on a mere $5 a day. While it may seem impossible for anyone who knows New York, it is a harsh reality for many people. Some even are surviving on less. "I was amazed of how you can actually survive with $5 without starving. If you want to eat healthy this may not be your best option, but if you don't really care, go for it! I ate one boiled egg, 3 bananas, 1 slice of pizza, fries and a burger, I can't complain and my wallet either!" Michelle explains. What about the challenge of reaching out to others? Michelle challenged herself to take a photo with a complete stranger and share the photo with them. This may seem like a no-brainer to an outgoing personality, but for introverted people this task sounds daunting and uncomfortable. "A random guy was smoking a cigarette looking at beautiful Chicago when I decided to take his picture. After I edited the photo, my friend suggested I show the picture to the guy and I thought she was completely out of her mind. That moment, I knew this had to be a challenge so I walked up to him and showed him the photo. He actually really liked it and wanted to chat for a bit. I realized there is nothing to be afraid of, people actually enjoy some human connection." Michelle, after completing 46 challenges so far, finds fear is becoming an arbitrary emotion. Fear is something that has hindered her ability to enjoy life, and could potentially keep her from achieving success. By stepping out of her comfort zone, she is giving a big "f*ck you" to fear. Michelle still has a way to go, but shes proud of her accomplishments. Holding a snake, changing a dirty diaper, going to a bar alone. Are you inspired by Michelle's small acts of courage? Maybe you could try your own fitness-focused 100 challenge? Check out her blog and let us know your thoughts!