Listen to this episode on the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod

Every few years or so, I’m paralyzed by the thought of hitting the ski slopes. My first attempt at skiing was many a moon ago, prior to kids and aching knees, and at that time, I fell my way through it. I was completely and utterly afraid to go down the first hill – to the point where my friend grabbed my hands and skied backwards so I could get off the mountain. And since then, my skills have not improved, despite the every 3-5 year visit we tend to make.

But now we’re at a point where my kiddos are old enough to want to ski often. They have been asking my husband to take them since the end of 2025, and he did make a trip a few weeks ago – just the 3 of them. I did have other obligations at that point, which warranted me staying behind.

However, when my husband planned the most recent trip – I had no out. There was no tangible reason I COULDN’T go…besides my own debilitating fear. What if I fall? What if I hurt myself to a point that I’m unable to dance regularly? What if the boys need help on the mountain? I certainly can’t manage them and myself.

But, despite the anxiety that kept me restless for several days leading up to the trip, I went. I put on my big girl pants and went. And while skiing is certainly still not for me, I was proud of myself for conquering my fear, yet again. I’d like to share with you 5 steps to overcome your fear:

1. Figure out what is driving the fear in the first place. Mine was risk of injury and no need for speed. Being able to hone in on what is causing the fear is a necessary first step towards conquering.
2. Educate yourself. Is there anything you could do to learn about the fear? Can you read about people with similar fears? Can you look up statistics on the potential for getting hurt whilst conquering the fear? Could you take a class? I signed up for a beginner ski lesson for the first time, and while I’m no expert, I did feel mildly more comfortable having someone instruct me for the first few hours on the slopes.
3. Find a buddy. If possible, find someone you trust to go through this situation together. I know of examples where people have taken their friend with them to certain doctor’s appointments. Or asked a family member to accompany them to a scary public speaking gig. In my case, I had my husband and 2 boys by my side – they took turns hanging back with slow mom and made sure I was ok during the whole trip.
4. Keep your expectations low. When you do decide to go for it, don’t expect perfection. Likely, if you’re trying something for the first (or even 5th time), you will not be the best. Or like anyone else around you. And that’s ok. You may need more help than the average person or you may fail a few times before getting the hang of it. I fell off the ski lift twice during my short ski trip. I was ok the first time, more embarrassed the 2nd time – but overall, I took a few deep breaths, blinked back tears, and went on with the day.
5. Reward yourself. Once you’ve done what you previously thought was impossible, you deserve to pat yourself on the back. Do something nice for yourself or treat yourself to something you’ve been long awaiting. You’ve earned it!

With these steps in mind, will I rush back onto the slopes? Ehhhh, time and snow will tell – but today I can be proud that I lived to tell the tale, with no broken bones!