Big Air Snowboarding debuted at the 2018 Games in Pyeongchang. But as the level of difficulty rose, so did the risk. We shook our heads in disbelief when Olympic snowboarders stood atop the 160 ft tower, poised to launch themselves into an uncertain future.

“Old” snowboarders were wrong to think the young ones have no fear. Chris Corning said that his heart is always racing, and Jamie Anderson said nothing about big air feels natural. Snowboarders use fear to sharpen their thoughts and give themselves an advantage. At the moment of truth, they breathe deeply, clap their hands and go. In fact, many actively seek out the fear to feel most alive and engaged.

Even seasoned speakers experience fear, trepidation, or the “yips.” In the fear zone, mindfulness has its limitations. Instead, dive into fear, bring it into your being, and use it as a saber to cut away the noise and sharpen your intention. This is your opportunity to be a champion. Breathe deeply, clap your hands, and go.