"Pardon him, Theodotus; he is a barbarian, and thinks that the customs of his tribe and island are the laws of nature."
Do things you're afraid to do. Then, you survive them, and it's an accomplishment. Excel at them…and it's a bonus! Great moments come at unexpected times. Resist fatigue, resist negativity, and—regardless of the situation—make the most of the moment you're in.
Reality cannot be changed outright, but it is slightly malleable.