Do something different.
“If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.”
— Henry Ford.
THE LOWDOWN
Despite being constantly reminded by popular media, ultra-motivated CEOs, self-help gurus and psychologists, of all the benefits of trying new things and push ourselves through experiences that challenge us, teach us and make us stronger, most people will still prefer to remain in their cozy comfort zone, ideally with an ice-cream tub and a snuggie blanket. But why?
Our brain is such a habit junkie and is so scared of awkward experiences, that it will use everything in its power to keep us from going out the front door: it will induce fear and even panic imagining a catastrophic outcome (which is never that bad), it will coax us with neurochemical rewards for sinking even deeper in the sofa and it’ll throw itself on the floor and won’t cooperate because inertia is on its side. Occasionally it will even throw a tantrum, but you must never reward this behaviour with sweets or cookies.
This week we propose you teach your brain a positive lesson by doing something different, something new, even unexpected. It doesn’t have to be something big or too dramatic, start small so you can enjoy the awkwardness of personal growth one step at a time.
WHY IS IT GOOD?
Trying new things will help you (and your brain) in many different ways:
New experiences boost memory.
Having to pay more attention to something different will take you out of the autopilot mode, time slows down and it helps you be more present.
Just listening to new music increases mental acuity.
It boosts your courage and confidence, counteracting the fear of failure.
It will support and develop your growth mindset.
You’ll become more creative: putting your brain in new situations will force it to create new pathways, improving your cognitive abilities and ultimately your brain health.
It will challenge your self-imposed limitations, proving them wrong.
You’ll defeat boredom.
You might meet interesting people, discover new interests and become more interesting.
SOME IDEAS
Doing something different doesn’t have to be a life-changing experience, a twist in your daily routine is enough.
Try a Lebanese recipe. If you’re Lebanese, try Jalapeño Ice-Cream.
Try Punk Rock Aerobics.
Try a new hobby, yes that one you’ve always wanted to do.
Make your own pesto.
Meet with a friend you haven’t seen in a long time.
Join a new Meetup group.
EXTRA BROWNIE POINTS
Create a habit of doing something different.
Have fun experimenting!
Vero and Enrique
Choose your rhythm.
Kensho Life
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