Try Something New Today!

Recently, we did something a little out of character. I was pretty nervous, very much intimidated, and wondering how I managed to let a coupon and a free set of boxing gloves convince me. But I did. And so, with money spent (and free gloves in tow), I decided to try something new. I took my first kickboxing class.

Some of you may be thinking ‘What’s the big deal?’ But others of you who, like me, aren’t huge joiners, tend to exercise in the solitude of the living room, and rarely step out of our comfort zones, it was a big deal. In my head, I was walking into a room full of very fit, very cut men and women, expertly punching and kicking a very heavy bag, and wondering what someone like me was doing in their very sweaty gym. But what I found was a welcoming group of people, some experts (some not), some cut (some not), and all very focused on their own workout. My first class was not easy—I stumbled, felt awkward at times and silly at others. But I also had so. much. fun. And in the end, I was very sweaty and so unexpectedly happy.

We all get stuck in a rut sometimes—in our workout or daily activities, in the foods we eat, or the way we deal with stress. We stick to familiar routines for fear of the unknown or potential embarrassment. It’s true that every new adventure involves some risk and uncertainty. But if you challenge those fears, you might discover something new to enjoy. And stepping out of your comfort zone can boost your confidence, improve self-esteem, and help you grow.

Approach your new exercise, recipe or activity as an experiment. Let go of how you think it’ll turn out, and instead be curious, focus on the fun, and take the time to see if it works well for you. Now, I’m not saying that kickboxing is for everyone, but trying something new is. You never know what you’ll find.