Stepping Out of the Zone

If you're anything like me, you like to stay nice and safe in your "zone"

You know what colors you look good in and you wear your favorite jeans day in and day out. You know what kind of books you like and stay in that genre. You do your hair and makeup the same and you like your schedule. And, sometimes I feel as if I take it a step farther- I like the friends I have and I don't mind not making new ones. I don't go out if I don't need to- I'd rather read. 

basically, I'm an old, retired woman stuck in an 18 year old body.

But really, I sometimes very often feel that way. And then I realized that I that I need to take advantage of my youth. I need to step out of my comfort box and into roles that I never expected I'd like. I need to stop over-thinking and jump head in. 

and then I did.

It was terrifying. Terrible. 

I'd never invested so much energy into being a friend, student, or philanthropist until now.

And it's exhausting, but exhilarating. 

I've realized that loving people is so much fun! And classes are so great with friends to study with. 

the best part about being passionate about a cause is being able to share that passion with hundreds or thousands of other students. 

And, at least for me, I didn't know I was lonely until I wasn't anymore.

It's so odd, because I'm such a home-body, but also a thrill seeker. I'm not sure how it fits together, but I love the adrenaline of roller coasters or snorkeling or traveling to new places. And getting out of my comfort zone has given me a way to experience that thrill- to be uncomfortable- in my own back yard. 

And life isn't worth living if it isn't a thrill.

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

At the start of the New Year, I told myself that I wanted to try each day to step out of my comfort zone. Whether that be cutting my hair differently or simply talking to a new group of people, I wanted to constantly challenge myself and show myself how strong of a person I am! Like most resolutions, I'm not sure that I ever did it long enough to actually consider it "starting"... it was more of just a fantastic idea that never sunk in. But today, I did something so far out of my comfort zone; I was so incredibly scared, but I ended up having a great time!

today, I formed my backbone.

My school held it's first real debate! Of course, we've done mock debates in classes, but the school has never organized something like this where state Senators, the Superintendent, and the Principal come and listen! It was a monumental first and I'm so fortunate honored to have been a part of the group. The thing is, I'm not really the most assertive or outgoing. I'm the type to relax, have a calm conversation, and agree to disagree. But, I had a blast at the debate and (after I got over my jitters) was totally okay with voicing my opinion and putting my hours of research to good use. While it was not something that I typically would do, the debate put me out of my comfort zone, and I loved it!!

There was something so thrilling about the butterflies in my stomach. I loved the feeling I had when I knew I had an answer or rebuttal to something the opposing side had to say. It was exhilarating in a way, because it was so out of my normal behavior. While I don't plan to become more assertive or outspoken anytime soon, the experience was fantastic and the confidence it instilled in me will have a lasting effect. I told myself once, but I'd like to try it again:

put yourself out there & enjoy the thrill of something new!