Fed up with the same ol’, same ol’? Feeling bored? Here’s why trying something different could be a good idea…
Life’s too short to let the moment pass. This year has seen a crop of famous names die in a short space of time – musicians David Bowie and Lemmy from Motorhead, actor Alan Rickman and broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan. These are household names that your mum and dad grew up with but they’re probably just as familiar to you.
But time flies and every one of these great achievers would say, ‘Get out there and just do it!’
One minute you’re kicking around with your mates, the next you’re at university, working, married, having kids, retired, a grandparent. If that sounds like a line that your parents or grandparents might say, actually ask them to tell you how their life has been, the highs, the lows, and see how long it takes them to sum up the highlights. Short or long, it’s incredible how quickly a lifetime can be described.
Which is why it’s so important you make the most of it. Ever heard the phrase, “Live every moment as though it were your last”? It’s actually a pretty good way to view it. Yeah, you might think all you need is a computer, TV, your fave sports team and mates, but there’s a whole world of stuff going on out there that you might be missing out on… and you never know, trying something new now might lead to something truly great tomorrow.
Here are three good reasons to ‘seize the day’ and give something new a go, today.
- Grow your comfort zone
Trying new activities, eating different foods and visiting new places all push you out of your comfort zone a little bit. When you regularly take small steps outside your comfort zone, your confidence and self-esteem grow. Then, when you need to go outside you comfort zone for something bigger, like an important test or job interview, you’ll have the emotional strength to take on the challenge. Little changes can make a bigger you.
- Add some excitement
Even the hobbies you love can get boring after a while, and once the challenge goes you don’t enjoy those things any more. Trying out new aspects of your hobby or experimenting with entirely new hobbies, especially something you aren’t so sure about, keeps the challenge there and stops the boredom. Sounds simple, but it’s true. Activities such as surfing, skateboarding or snowboarding can provide physical as well as mental and social challenges – all good reasons to give them a go!
- Be brave
It’s easy to keep doing the same things on repeat. Then again, the thought of doing something different can seem scary. But remember that if you don’t like the new activity once you’ve tried it, you never have to do it again. Chances are, though, you might find a brand new hobby you love. And you never know, that new activity could turn into your whole career.
Convinced that there’s no reason to be bored? Here’s what to do next. Grab a pen and paper or your phone and start a list of things you like the sound of. Then simply get started on them and cross them off as you go. Every ticked box is a goal achieved. Writing a list also means you’re more likely to spot other new opportunities.
Looking to move on to the next level? Why not write a blog about all the new things you’ve tried? And if you’re struggling for ideas, have a look at our 101 Bucket List Ideas. It might just inspire you to get started!