This month, we’ve been talking about pushing yourself to get out of your comfort zone. It might be safe and cozy inside that comfort zone, but you’re never going to grow and change without leaving it.
You don’t have to suddenly decide to go sky-diving or quit your job to move to another country to push your boundaries. Small steps can help you build confidence to try new things. You’ll find opportunities you never knew existed when you take those steps and you can begin to live with a growth mindset.
So now it’s time to flex those courage muscles and try something new! Below, I’ve listed 30 ways to get out of your comfort zone. Some are smaller, and some are probably going to be pretty difficult. I challenge you to complete at least one of the items on this list before the end of the month.
Try a new restaurant, especially one with a cuisine you’ve never had before.
Go on a road trip to somewhere you’ve never been. Bonus points if you stop at a weird roadside attraction.
Get a new hair cut or dye your hair a different color.
Buy a new outfit in a style or color you wouldn’t usually pick. Guys, this goes for you too!
Try a class. The local library is a great place to find free classes available in your area.
Try a new hobby. The internet is a treasure trove of ideas for interesting hobbies.
Join a group that fits your interests. You can learn more about something you already like and make new friends.
Watch a foreign movie or TV show with subtitles. You might be surprised how much you like it!
Read a book in a genre you wouldn’t usually pick. Or maybe if you don’t usually read, just read a book!
Reach out to an old friend and reconnect
Attend a networking event (in-person or virtually)
Purge old stuff. Time for some spring cleaning!
Say hi to a coworker or neighbor you’ve never talked to before
Have a phone free day. Put down the electronics and enjoy the outdoors.
Use your non-dominant hand for a day (If you’re right-handed, use your left and vice versa)
Try baking something new. Dig up an old family recipe and give it a try for yourself.
Give something you dislike another try. Maybe you’ll like Brussels sprouts now if they’re roasted with bacon!
Volunteer. Whether it’s just once at a soup kitchen or you join an organization, you’ll find that giving back feels good.
Get moving! Too many of us spend all of our time sitting in front of a screen, so take a walk, do some yoga, or whatever else you want to get your body going.
Take the “scenic route” to work. Taking a different path to a familiar destination will help shake you out of your routine.
Give a stranger a compliment. You’ll never know how much it will make their day.
Have a dance party in your living room. Crank up the music and let yourself go!
If you’re a night owl, wake up early. If you’re an early bird, stay up late.
Visit a local museum or attraction in your city that you’ve never been to
Take a day off from work. You deserve it.
Have the difficult conversation you've been putting off
Negotiate for a raise or a promotion at work.
Start learning a foreign language.
At work, make calls to prospects and ask for the business.
Do something all by yourself.
It's time to try something new. Now you've got plenty of ideas, so let us know in the comments what you did to get out of your comfort zone!