TRY SOMETHING NEW
When I try new things, I expand, learn and grow
It is not uncommon to feel like you’re “in a rut”—whether that rut has manifested itself in a relationship, a job, or just life in general. The fact is that humans naturally prefer routine. Some of us even thrive off of it—understandably so, because routine and consistency can lay the groundwork for setting and reaching your goals, which in turn fuels your ability to become your best self. With that said, the pitfall of leaning too hard into routine is that you might find yourself getting too comfortable, and then, ultimately, stuck and struggling to reach your full potential. One of the most common examples I see? People who are committed to their fitness and consistently go to the same gym or the same instructors at the same time every. Single. Day.
While there is absolutely something to be said for this stick-to-itiveness nature, life is about constantly expanding, growing and learning. I believe—and have found from my own personal experiences—that strength comes from making a conscious decision to challenge your comfort zone. When you try new activities, workouts, recipes, or routines, you could make valuable new connections. You could discover you excel at a skill you might have had no idea you would even want to hone.
Sure, you might get nervous.
That’s a totally normal response when stepping out of your comfort zone. When that occurs, I often think, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Allow yourself to think through that “worst case” scenario. I remind myself on a first date that I can leave if I feel uncomfortable. If it’s a new workout class, I can stop and rest when I need to. By simply allowing yourself to at least try something new, not only will you begin to feel unstuck but you won’t find yourself wondering what you could be missing.
Time to put it into practice.
Complete the worksheet below to brainstorm and discover new things you can try this week. I filled out the same worksheet so you can get some ideas + see how it works.
The best way to edit your list is to copy/paste the text into a new note on your phone.
YOUR LIST
I WILL TRY ____________ NEW THING THIS WEEK
Brainstorm:
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Final Decision:
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SHANNON’S LIST
I WILL TRY 2 NEW THING THIS WEEK
Brainstorm:
GloveWorx class
Hiphop dance class
New hiking trail
“The Morrison” in Los Feliz
Magic Mike show/girls’ night
Final Decision:
Gloveworx class @ Century City, Friday @ 7:30pm
Planned/confirmed “Magic Mike” night with 4 girlfriends for Saturday night
TODAY’S MANTRA:
When I try new things, I expand, learn and grow
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Routines are great, but in order to expand, grow and learn you must step outside of your comfort zone
Being nervous is OK! A good coping strategy is to think through the “worst case” scenario and figure out a plan if that were to occur
The only way to stop wondering what you could be missing is to TRY! Some ideas: fitness class, recipe, morning routine
GREAT JOB, DAY 1 DOWN
Share your list on Instagram and tag me to be featured on my page - I can’t wait to see your new goals for this week! @ShannonShape