I know what I like. Where I like to go. What I like to eat. What I like to do. I go to the same restaurants over and over. I order the same thing every time I go. And my days are relatively routine, filled with the same things over and over that I like to do. I’m hesitant to try new things, new experiences. Usually because they are outside my comfort zone or my regular routine.
Conquering our fears
One of my most notable new experiences occurred while on my honeymoon. We were in Jamaica and my husband wanted to climb Dunn’s River Falls. I couldn’t think of anything less enjoyable. The adventure required an hour-long ride in a resort van over twisty roads that proclaimed only 25 deaths this year (this adventure was on January 4) driven by a man who I question whether or not actually had a driver’s license. It also included water. Dunn’s River Falls is a waterfall, after all. And I do not swim.
But I grudgingly went. Because my new husband wanted to go. The biggest surprise? I loved it! I had the best time. Determining where to go, where to place my foot next, figuring out how to get where we needed to be, was like going through a high ropes course – but in relatively shallow water. Climbing the falls was a new experience for me and one I’m so glad I was able to have. It created a memory – a wonderful memory – I will have for the rest of my life. And, given the opportunity, I would definitely go on this adventure again.
I took part in other new experiences on my honeymoon, too. Like snorkeling. Again, it included water. I don’t swim. I don’t like water. I am a mountain girl. Sure, everything under the water was beautiful, but this new experience not enjoyable. But still, I’m glad I did it. One because it really was beautiful and something I should see at least once in my life. But second because now I know for sure that it just isn’t my thing.
Things aren’t always as boring as they sound
In November, the local Navy Seal museum held its annual muster. I had no idea what a muster was, but I could imagine. Again, not my thing. But once again, I did go. My husband had wanted to go for years, but I always pushed back. There was always something else we needed to do or I was able to manufacture some reason to not go. This year I relented. It was going to be a new experience mixed into my comfortable and predictable life.
The muster wasn’t too far off from what I imagined. There were retired Seals who parachuted in from a helicopter, guns were shot, and explosives detonated. What I didn’t expect or appreciate was the history and stories that were relayed, the precision and skills demonstrated by these men, and the sense of patriotism, support and love for these men and our country. It was amazing! I now regret waiting so many years to go and look forward to going again next year.
We need to evolve
There is a saying in business that you need to change, to evolve, or else become obsolete. Think about Kodak or RIM – once household names – as they failed to recognize changes and advances within their industry. Or the professional who neglects to stay up to date with the latest trends in his or her field.
The same goes for us as people. We need to evolve and change. It’s part of what makes us who we are and helps to frame our state of mind. A static state of mind becomes a bored state of mind and eventually a bitter state of mind. This doesn’t mean that you need to go out and try sky diving tomorrow – something I would actually love to do – but you should be open to new experiences. Try new foods. Go on adventures when offered the opportunity. Or create them as you are able. Because chances are – just as they were with me – these new experiences will open your eyes to new things you love to do – or you are at least glad you did.
