A Walk into the Unknown
Today, I’m joining a Philly social group that invites people to take walks together. I’ll be going by myself, not knowing a single person in this new group or this new city. It might be a terrible idea—and I’m really glad I’m doing it anyway. Even if it turns out to be boring, lonely, or (yikes) embarrassing, I’m still proud I have the tenacity to try. Just the hope of meeting new people, having a conversation, or spotting something new about Philadelphia with locals is worth it to me.
Of course, the usual anxious thoughts have shown up: What if people don’t like me? What if I stand out and feel awkward? What if no one talks to me, or worse—what if I have nothing to say and just come off ridiculous?
I’m ready for all of it. I’m ready to feel funny, both in the good and bad ways. I’m ready to walk away if the vibe isn’t right. I’m ready to blush and laugh at myself when I inevitably say something foolish. What I’m NOT ready to do is give up and decide that trying new things is too risky.
In the end, it doesn’t matter how this outing turns out. The important part is that I keep pushing myself outside of my comfort zone and and be open to whatever comes from it.
ACTION: The next time you’re faced with an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, take a small step to gauge the experience. Whether it goes well or not, give yourself the chance to find out what it feels like.
