Stepping out of our comfort zones can be downright terrifying, but taking those first steps can lead to amazing new friendships, experiences, and opportunities. All it takes is a bit of planning, a glimmer of inspiration, and a hearty dose of courage.
1. Volunteer at a Festival
Helping is a great way to get your feet wet when it’s time to step out of your comfort zone. It gives you something meaningful to do while you learn what goes into making a big event work. Whether it's a Renaissance Fair or Music Festival you'll meet people from many different walks of life and get to see and understand their passions while you help things run smoothly.
2. Play a Game
If you're athletic (or want to be) find a local volleyball, swim, or rugby team to join. Strengthen your body, learn new skills, and get to know people who will love helping you grow.
3. Find a Pen Pal
In this digital age, receiving a handwritten letter or brown paper parcel is like receiving a treasure. Find a pen pal overseas and exchange letters, traditional foods, favorite magazines, and postcards of your region.
4. Plant a Garden
Find your nearest community garden and secure a plot for yourself. Get to know your fellow gardeners and share tips and produce as you plant carrots and harvest tomatoes.
5. Join a Book Club
Open yourself up to the opinions and ideas of others by joining a book club or hosting a lit swap. As you read and listen, you'll have your own world views stretched, challenged, and enriched.
6. Attend a Class
Always been interested in World War II or wanted to get better at public speaking? Take a class at your local community college and increase your knowledge and experience while getting to know others interested in the same things.
7. Join a Tea Club
Celebrate your tea passions by joining a tea club where you can taste delicious brews, meet fellow tea lovers, and be inspired to take time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
8. Learn a Craft
Embrace your inner artist and join a painting group or take a pottery class. Try knitting or collage, mosaics or wood-carving, until you find the craft that makes your heart sing.
9. Take a Tour
Community groups often organize tours to flower festivals or museum exhibits. Get a ticket to the next event and meet some lovely local people on the way.
10. Join a Reenactment Group
Immerse yourself in history by joining a reenactment group. Learn what people wore, ate, and did in the Civil War, Medieval Europe, or the Viking Age, and have a blast living in the past a few times a month.
11. Attend a Library Event
Watch a travelogue, attend a book signing, or learn about photography at events hosted by the library.
12. Attend a Community Breakfast
Many business, volunteer, and community organizations host monthly breakfasts with great speakers and delicious food. Buy a ticket, fill your coffee cup, and get to know the movers and shakers in your neck of the woods.
