Trying Something New: Why you should and Top Tips

LET'S TRY SOMETHING NEW

This week, I want to talk about tips for trying something new. I myself, used to not be very adventurous in regards to trying something new, and have always been quite stuck in my routine and enjoyed doing things my way. Well this summer I stepped outside my comfort zone and for the last 10 weeks I have been going to an outdoor fitness group with my friend, and not only that - all her hockey team! I don't play or know much about hockey in the slightest, and I was under the impression that other 'non-hockey' goers would also be there! But alas, there was not - but in the end this didn't matter!

In the past, I have also stepped outside my comfort zone on holiday doing things like hiking (which no I love!), white water rafting (so fun!) and going on roller coasters (never again!!)

I know this post might not be for everyone and it could be a little too daunting, but if you are wanting a lil' self development or always wanted to try something new, but didn't have the guts (!) - then this could be a post for you!

WHY?

1) A new hobby or interest: It refers back to one of the old sayings 'you won't know till you try!'. It's important to remember that everyone was new at their chosen hobbies once, and although this can be daunting, it can also be super exciting to find something new that you really enjoy!

2) Learn more about yourself: New experiences enhance our knowledge on our self, and tapping into more of our likes and dislikes. It can be easy (like me!) to stick to routines, but you never know what hidden talent or enjoyment could be deeper beneath the surface!

3) Meeting new people: This is probably the aspect that worries me the most, as I subconsciously worry about how other people are going to respond! But through trying something new, you are giving yourself the opportunity to a) meet like-minded people and b) provide yourself with a whole new social circle.

TOP TIPS

• Brainstorm your ideas - Draw a mind-map of your current hobbies or interests, then draw off skills or reasons you enjoy that certain hobby from that and then from looking at these skills and reasons, think about what new things you might want to try that you would think you'd enjoy! Even if you are not sure, try that something new - and if you hate it you have learnt more about yourself and your dislikes!

• Research - Use your computer, word of mouth, magazines, newspapers etc. to discover more information on what you would like to try, then find something in your local area!

• Get Excited - It's an exciting time trying something new, and discovering the possibility of having a new hobby/meeting new people/learning more about yourself!

• (If needed) Take someone with you - surround yourself with a supportive network of friends or family, who can support you if you are feeling particularly nervous. Depending on what your new venture is, see if a friend or family member want's to come along as well! You never know, it may end up being a new hobby for them also!

I hope this post has encouraged you to step outside your comfort zone and try something new - whatever that may be! I personally ended up loving this outside fitness group with a ton of people I hadn't met before, but I genuinely looked forward to it every week, and it's inspired me to keep on trying new things! Who knows what's next!

Lots of Love

Ruth xxx