An ‘Improv With Strangers’ class.
An immersive 4D gaming experience, complete with a headset and full body armour.
A slime tutorial.
A trip to Northern Ireland.
A walk through an unfamiliar part of the neighbourhood.
A new workout program.
What do all of these things have in common?
They are new experiences that I have engaged in over the last few months.
Why have I done these things? Because I have grown to embrace that new experiences play an integral role in my mental well-being.
Earlier last year, as a mother of two young boys, I quickly found myself stuck in the monotonous ‘rinse & repeat’ cycle of life.
Wake up.
Get dressed.
Get the kids dressed.
Make breakfast.
Make lunches.
Brush teeth.
Drive to daycare.
Go to Work.
Pick kids up.
Make dinner.
Clean.
Baths.
Story time.
Bed time.
Repeat.
“Exciting” adventures included (and were limited to):
Outings to the grocery store for essential amenities.
Household chores.
Ordering take-out once a week (woot woot!).
I wasn’t unhappy, but I knew that something was missing.
After some introspection, I realized that I longed for the ‘newness’ that once upon a time organically flooded into my life.
It may look different than it did in my 20s, but I realized that there were ample opportunities for me to inject more ‘newness’ into my life, and I’m incredibly happy that I empowered myself to do so!
If you are wondering whether or not you could use more ‘newness’ in your life, here are 6 benefits of embracing the unknown and stepping outside of your comfort zone:
1. Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Trying new things is an incredible catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. When we step outside our comfort zones, we challenge ourselves to learn, adapt, and evolve. Whether it’s learning a new skill, exploring a different culture, or pursuing a passion, each new experience broadens our horizons and helps us uncover hidden talents and interests.
2. Overcoming Fear and Building Resilience
Fear often holds us back from trying new things. However, by facing our fears head-on, we develop resilience and inner strength. Each time we step into the unknown, we become more adept at handling uncertainty and adversity. Overcoming fear not only empowers us but also opens doors to a life filled with exciting opportunities.
3. Expanding Perspectives and Breaking Stereotypes
Trying new things allows us to break free from our preconceived notions and expand our perspectives. It encourages us to embrace diversity, challenge stereotypes, and foster empathy. By immersing ourselves in new experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the world and the people who inhabit it, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.
4. Stimulating Creativity and Innovation
New experiences ignite our creativity and inspire innovative thinking. When we expose ourselves to different environments, ideas, and cultures, we gain fresh insights and perspectives. This newfound creativity can be applied to various aspects of our lives, from problem-solving at work to finding unique solutions in our personal endeavors.
5. Preventing Stagnation and Regret
Life is too short to be confined to a monotonous routine. Trying new things injects excitement and zest into our lives, preventing stagnation and regret. It ensures that we make the most of our time on this planet, creating a tapestry of memories and experiences that we can look back on with joy and fulfillment.
6. Building Resilient Relationships
Trying new things together strengthens relationships and creates lasting bonds. Whether it’s embarking on an adventure with friends, exploring a new hobby with a partner, or joining a community of like-minded individuals, shared experiences foster connection and create lifelong memories.
In conclusion, trying new things is not just a mere act of novelty; it is a gateway to personal growth, self-discovery, and a life filled with excitement and fulfillment.
So, embrace the adventure, step outside of you comfort zone, and unlock the incredible benefits that await you!
Need help getting outside of your comfort zone? Head to www.elitehighperformance.com to learn more about our resources and programs!
Your highest potential is our passion here at team Elite, and we are happy to help!
Coach MJ | High-Performance Leadership Coach
