Reluctance isn’t just understandable—it’s valuable. In fact, we believe it’s the reluctant participants who most authentically embody the spirit of the Trials & Tribulations challenge. Here’s why:
Reluctance mirrors the refugee experience
In the real world, nobody wants to be a refugee. Refugees don’t choose to leave their homes, to wade through freezing seas, or to endure hardship—they are forced into it by circumstances beyond their control.
- Reluctance creates empathy: Participants who feel hesitant, nervous, or uncomfortable about joining the challenge already have an emotional starting point that mirrors, in a small way, the fear and resistance refugees feel when facing their journeys.
- Genuine discomfort: Those who don’t want to be there can better connect to the reality that refugees don’t want to face hardship either—they simply have no choice.
A meaningful sacrifice
When someone reluctant steps up, the act carries more weight. They are sacrificing comfort, pushing through fear, and showing courage—qualities that resonate deeply with the purpose of the challenge.
- A reluctant participant’s contribution is profound: The mum who’d rather stay home but still wades waist-deep into the sea is a testament to real effort and commitment.
- Turning reluctance into strength: By taking part despite their doubts, they prove that they can overcome reluctance for a greater cause.
Reluctance keeps the challenge grounded
While enthusiastic and sporty participants bring energy, their ease with the physical challenge can unintentionally overshadow its deeper meaning. Reluctance keeps the focus on what really matters: solidarity, sacrifice, and empathy.
- Authenticity over enthusiasm: The challenge isn’t about athleticism or proving personal fitness; it’s about walking (or wading) in someone else’s shoes—no matter how uncomfortable that feels.
- A grounded experience: Reluctant participants are often the first to reflect on the symbolic meaning of the challenge, adding depth to the event.
Harnessing reluctance
Reluctance doesn’t have to be a barrier. It can be tapped into as a powerful motivator:
Link reluctance to solidarity
- “You don’t want to wade through cold water? Neither do refugees, but they have no choice.”
- “Your reluctance shows you understand how hard this is for the people we’re standing with. That makes you the perfect person to take on this challenge.”
Turn it into a personal growth story
- “Feeling hesitant now is okay, but imagine how proud you’ll feel when you finish. That reluctance will make your achievement even more meaningful.”
- “You’re stepping outside your comfort zone—and that’s exactly what makes this experience so powerful.”
Focus on the symbolic victory
- “Every step you take, even reluctantly, sends a message to the world: you care, you see the struggles of refugees, and you’re willing to act.”
- “Your participation shows that you’re not just standing by. You’re standing with refugees.”
The reluctant participant’s legacy
By taking part, the reluctant participant sets an example that inspires others who might feel the same:
- “If she can do it, so can I.”
- “She didn’t think she could, but she found strength through faith and purpose—and so can I.”
Reluctance doesn’t just make the challenge harder; it makes it more meaningful. Those who step up despite their hesitation reflect the essence of the challenge: recognising difficulty, embracing discomfort, and taking action anyway.
In conclusion
Reluctance is not a weakness—it’s the strength that drives this challenge. By participating even when it feels uncomfortable, you honour the struggles of those who have no choice but to face adversity every single day. And that, ultimately, is what the Trials & Tribulations challenge is all about.