Today I am thankful for new experiences. “We human beings are creatures of habit.” I am sure that we have all heard that saying numerous times. And more than likely, the reason why we hear it so much is because it is true. We have a tendency to visit the same places, do the same things, and all with the same people. My guess is that we feel comfort in the familiar. And in all actuality there is nothing wrong with that. The familiar is often what makes it easier for us to relax, let our guards down a little, and enjoy life more.
But there is something to be said for opening ourselves up to new experiences. Now, those new experiences can range from huge endeavors to very minute events or opportunities. And let’s face it, most of us have probably lived long enough to know that even the most minute of events can turn out to be one of the most profound experiences in one’s life. The key is to not prevent oneself from opening up to new experiences, and to not put too many expectations or limitations on those experiences.
By nature I am a planner and I prefer that things be organized as much as possible. That’s just how I am wired. So, I have had to remind myself numerous times to relax my expectations and self-imposed limits and really allow myself to branch out and enjoy life. I am still a work in progress, after all, some changes in life really are marathons rather than sprints. (And if you want my take on “change” you can read about it here). I can say in all honesty that I have made substantial progress in that area.
As a matter of fact I will share a recent new experience of mine with you. I decided to drastically change my hairstyle a couple of weeks ago. And when I say drastic I mean drastic, something completely out of the ordinary for me. I changed the color, the length, and the basic style. Needless to say, it took a little while for me to truly realize the magnitude of the change that I had affected. After I gave it some time to grow on me so to speak, though, I realized that I truly felt like a new woman. I was rejuvenated, and this new hairstyle has saved me time and effort to boot. Now had I stayed in my comfort zone and stuck to the hairstyles that I am used to I would not have experienced those exact positive results.
And, certainly, changing one’s hairstyle is not a huge event compared to others, but I think you get my point here. So the next time that you are faced with the opportunity to experience something new I encourage you to put your comfort zone up on the shelf in the very back of your closet, put on some new shoes, lift that chin of yours up and go for it. #lovebythedrop
love by the drop 