If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat.

If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat.

John Ortberg

The quote “If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat” serves as a metaphor for taking risks and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone in pursuit of greater achievements or personal growth. The “boat” represents safety, security, and the familiar—where we feel comfortable but often stagnant. To “walk on water,” which symbolizes achieving extraordinary things or realizing dreams, one must first leave that safe space and embrace uncertainty.

At its core, this idea highlights that significant accomplishments often require us to confront fear and discomfort. Just as staying in the boat limits our experience of the world beyond its confines, remaining within our comfort zones can prevent us from reaching our full potential. The act of getting out signifies courage and a willingness to face challenges head-on.

In today’s world, this message resonates deeply across various aspects—personal development, career advancement, entrepreneurship, relationships—even social change. For example:

1. **Career Advancement**: In professional settings, individuals may feel hesitant to pursue promotions or new job opportunities due to fear of rejection or failure. By stepping out (applying for that challenging role or seeking new responsibilities), they open themselves up not only to potential success but also valuable learning experiences.

2. **Entrepreneurship**: Starting a business often requires taking significant financial risks and investing time into an uncertain outcome. Those who succeed are typically those who dare to take that leap rather than remaining in their stable jobs where they might feel secure yet unfulfilled.

3. **Personal Growth**: This concept applies directly to self-improvement endeavors—whether it’s committing to healthier habits like exercising regularly or facing emotional challenges such as confronting past traumas through therapy; both actions necessitate leaving behind what feels easy for something more rewarding.

4. **Social Change**: Individuals interested in advocating for social justice may find it uncomfortable initially due to societal pushback or personal inconvenience; however, meaningful change often stems from those willing to challenge norms by stepping forward despite fears.

In essence, embracing the discomfort associated with leaving one’s “boat” is pivotal for innovation and transformation—in ourselves and society at large—and can lead not only toward individual fulfillment but collective progress as well.

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