There’s something I think is important for all of us to do regularly—create new experiences for ourselves and others in our lives.
Often we get focused on building our businesses, advancing our careers, households or just the day-to-day routines in life, and that’s fine and noble. But we are not robots, we are human.
We are creative and need to breathe, journey and explore. Spontaneity, new experiences and travels make lasting memories, create new growth opportunities for personal enrichment, and create an awareness perspective and a new appreciation for all that we have to be grateful for.
One thing I’ve committed to doing is to take four pre-planned vacations each year at the end of each quarter. I have various business travels, some one or two-night getaway trips, a long weekend here and there, etc.
However, I’m trying to actually take time for these pre-planned vacations, and two of the vacations will be to places I’ve never been before.
You see, I realized I tend to rely on my usual trends and habits even in my travels. I tend to go to places that are comfortable and familiar, such as warm places in the Caribbean or Florida, although my regular travels often take me to Europe.
We are creatures of habit. We like what we like. If we really want to adventure and explore the world, to create new and enriching experiences, to experience different cuisines, histories, cultures and people, then we need to get out of our comfort zone.
We need to go to places we don’t usually go.
Seeing how the rest of the world lives is really eye-opening. Most of the world doesn’t have access to a fraction of what is available to people in the United States, where I live.
It’s a great reminder for those that live in the U.S. to never take anything for granted and to be grateful for their freedom and opportunity.
When we are able to see and experience other places, even if for a short amount of time, it makes us more mindful and aware of what we have. It allows us to be more grateful and appreciative of all that we are fortunate to enjoy in our lives.
It helps us be more benevolent, charitable and generous. Also it allows us to grow, enrich and enlarge our lives and perspectives.
Get out of your comfort zone, not just by going to a beach or luxury resort, but rather by immersing yourself in a new culture and experience. It will feel uncomfortable at first.
Find comfort in the unfamiliarity. That’s truly exploring and adventuring.
I encourage you to think about this when you book your next vacation or think about your next day trip or long weekend.
First, plan these things into your calendar. Second, instead of going to the same place or familiar place that you always like to go to, why not try someplace else?
If you haven’t been out of the country, get a passport and research countries you’ve always been interested in, and start building an itinerary to some faraway land to truly explore something new and different.
Watch what this does to your mind and your soul. It’s a truly amazing effect!
I guarantee you will want to continue to embrace new experiences as part of your life journey.
Let’s GO!
Power Quote
“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” —Neale Donald Walsch
Key Insight
Do something new and different. Get outside of your comfort zone. Plan an adventure and explore the world. Find a way to make an impact and make a difference today and everyday.
Tactical Tip
When is your next vacation opportunity? If you could go anywhere, where would you go? Try brainstorming ideas for new experiences that will stretch your comfort zone. Try new foods or visit new places around your work and home as a start today.
Day Check
What new experience did you engage in today? How did it feel? Did you adjust and find comfort in being out of your comfort zone?