“Every time you challenge the boundaries of your comfort zone, you’re creating a new normal for yourself.”
This quote is written on a stone, beautifully painted and inscribed by my dear friend Bonnie. I keep this stone on my desk so I can see if as I write. In the last few years, I’ve made it a habit to step outside my comfort zone. I didn’t set out to do this. It just happened.
Since turning 50, I find myself going outside my comfort zone more often than I ever have before. I’m not sure why this is. From doing Blackout Races, to walking the Camino alone, I really enjoy seeing what lies outside my comfortable bubble.
I’m having a blast in my 50s. I feel like a weight has been lifted. The kids are grown up, life is reasonably calm, I’m healthy and fit. So, it’s time to start doing things I want to do. Even if they scare me.
Fear of water
Last week, I went kayaking. So what, right? Well, for one thing, I can’t swim. I’m also absolutely terrified of deep water. Yet, there I was out on a peaceful lake paddling away. Sure, I was wearing a life jacket. I don’t think I would have tried this in my younger years. I had such fear of trying new things.
Yet, in spite of not being able to swim, I managed to stay calm and paddle on. This was quite the accomplishment for me. My buddy Liz gave me tips on technique and how to handle the wake from motor boats. Most days, I managed to paddle for over an hour. I loved the sound of the paddles on the lake. Even when some inconsiderate boaters made large waves, I kept calm and paddled on. Not bad for a non swimmer!
Most days, there were loons out with their babies. One day, we paddled into a beautiful, secluded bay. It was shady and you could hear a waterfall nearby. The water lilies were in bloom. So beautiful and peaceful. I will remember these peaceful moments in the dead of winter when the temperatures dip to ridiculously low.
In spite of having a wonderful time paddling, I realize that I really need to learn how to swim. I feel like I’m missing out on so much fun. The trick will be to find time to schedule swimming lessons. Something else will have to give.
So, yeah, the magic really happens outside our comfort zone. Next up, I want to go skydiving.
A nice read. I went kayaking today with my kids. Soon much fun. Let’s try it together soon. 😊