Don’t Sit on the Sidelines: My 10-Year Lesson on Fear, Regret, and Taking Chances

I did something last week that I haven’t done in 10 years. It wasn’t climbing a mountain or running a marathon—it was something a lot simpler yet incredibly meaningful to me. I played soccer. For the first time in a decade, I laced up my cleats, stepped onto the field, and let myself enjoy the game I used to love more than anything.

But let me back up a little. I’ve spent years telling people to take chances. Whether in emails to the Nordstick fam or conversations with clients in physical therapy, my message is often the same: 

“A boat is safe in harbor, but that’s not what boats are for.” 

I’ve probably said this a thousand times because I genuinely believe in it. Life is about taking risks, trying new things, and living outside of your comfort zone. But here’s the kicker—I wasn’t taking my own advice.

The Fear That Kept Me on the Sidelines

Ten years ago, my college soccer career ended abruptly due to an injury. It wasn’t just a physical setback; it felt like I lost a piece of my identity. I was no longer “Garrett the soccer player”—I was just Garrett. And in coping with that loss, I made a choice: I turned my back on the game.

Every time a friend asked me to play, I’d come up with an excuse. I told myself I was too busy, too tired, or just not interested. But the truth was, I was scared. I loved soccer so much that I couldn’t bear the thought of getting hurt again and having to face that loss all over. So I chose not to play.

As a physical therapist, I help people overcome their fears and get back to doing what they love. I preach resilience and strength every day. But when it came to my own journey, I was stuck. I was afraid of being the guy who got hurt even though I was the one who helped others return from injury.

Why I Finally Took the Leap

 

Last week, something changed. My fiancée signed me up for a team, bought me a jersey, and nudged me—literally—to the field. I was nervous. I wondered if it would feel the same, if I’d still be good, or if I’d just mess up. But I went anyway, and once I started playing, it all came back. The joy, the memories, the love for the game—it was like I had never left.

And you know what? It felt amazing. I had missed it more than I even realized. But the most important thing wasn’t how well I played or how much fun I had—it was the realization that I’d spent 10 years avoiding something I loved out of fear.

What’s Holding You Back?

I share this story because I know I’m not the only one. So many of us sit on the sidelines, avoiding the things we love because we’re afraid—afraid of failing, of getting hurt, or of feeling the loss all over again. But the regret of not trying is so much worse.

If there’s something you’ve been avoiding—whether it’s picking up a sport you used to love, pursuing a passion project, or even just taking that first step towards a healthier lifestyle—know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there. And I’m probably going to be there again. But we can’t let fear dictate our lives.

Take the Chance—You Won’t Regret It

 

I wish I hadn’t let 10 years go by before stepping back onto the field. And if you’re reading this, I hope you don’t make the same mistake I did. Don’t let fear stop you from doing what you love.

At Nordstick, we’re all about reimagining home workouts to help you strengthen your body and build the confidence to take chances. Whether it’s through our products, our community, or stories like this, I hope we inspire you to get off the sidelines and into the game—whatever that game might be for you.

So here’s my advice: Do as I say and as I (finally) do. Take the chance. Do the thing you love. The worst that can happen is you end up sitting out for 10 years, wishing you’d tried sooner. But if you take the leap, you just might rediscover something you never knew you were missing.

I can’t wait for my next game. And I can’t wait to see what chances you’ll take.