Anna Geary has opened up about her past fears of judgement when applying for the Rose of Tralee, revealing that it almost stopped her from applying.
Anna represented her home county of Cork in the competition seven years ago.
Sharing her thoughts on Instagram, the RTE star asked her followers “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?”
She continued, “Any dreams/ ambitions/ goals that you would love to pursue but you are afraid of what people will think of you or say to you (or about you)???? Maybe you are afraid of your own self-criticism?”
Speaking of the throwback snaps she shared, Anna wrote, “I remember this moment as if it were yesterday (but it’s actually 7 years ago)! I had always wanted to be the Cork Rose. Ever since I had seen my cousin in the Rose of Tralee having the time of her life. It looked like the best craic!
“But I almost didn’t apply. I was afraid… not of failing … but rather of judgement! Would people roll their eyes and think “who is she to be going for that… notions”
“I was the Cork Senior Camogie Captain at the time. I was worried people would think “that’s enough for her now, shouldn’t she just focus on that”. That I should be a Cork Camogie Player and that’s it.”
Anna continued, sharing how the moment was a big highlight in her life, “Don’t get me wrong- it was, and will always be, a huge privilege to represent my county playing Camogie. Forever a highlight of my life!
“But NONE of us should be put in a box, allowing others to decide what we should or shouldn’t be.
“It was the last year I was eligible to apply so I took a deep breath, ignored that voice in my head, went for it & I never looked back. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I made some brilliant memories, met some fabulous people & I learned a hell of a lot about myself too! In ways, being the Cork Rose lit a spark in me to not be afraid to try new things!”
Before adding, “It also made me so determined to ensure that I fulfilled my commitments to Camogie too. To prove to myself that I could do it!
“Sometimes we tell ourselves stories, not based on fact! GET OUT OF YOUR OWN WAY! If lockdown has taught us anything it’s that you need to do more of what you want & love. “Feel the fear and do it anyway”, as the saying goes.
“What would you do if you weren’t afraid? Start a business? Leave your job? Have a baby on your own? Etc etc”