It’s a tale as old as time, repeated by parents, teachers, and the motivational Facebook posts of elderly second degree relatives you only just remember: “Step out of your comfort zone!”
And it’s a response as old as time by literally everyone else: “I think I’m good…”
It’s not secret why so many people are constantly hesitant to do new things. There’s a reason it’s a ‘comfort’ zone – we’re comfortable where we are. Whether it’s staying at the sides of a room full of people, or sticking to a firm, safe routine, so many people are peachy keen to stay comfortable.
Yet, there’s something about this time of year that makes people suddenly energised to do something wildly new. Calls of “New year, new me!”, and resolutions to pick up a brand new, weird hobby – because January is a time to take that step.
My question is this: why do we wait for January to roll around?
I know I’m guilty of this too. I’ve waited and waited for the “right time” to join a new club, or to meet new people, but as I think back on this, I have no idea why. There’s no rhyme or reason to putting off doing something you know deep down you want to – or even something you know will be so, so good for you!
Here’s the thing: life is short. We’re only young for so long. Chances are, you’ll wait until the new year to try something that you just adore, and then spend time regretting that you hadn’t done it sooner.
So keep in mind as we move slowly away from January, and you lose the motivation to try new things: you don’t need to wait till January, till next week, till tomorrow. It’s always a good time to start.