We’re all creatures of habit. While I like to think of myself as a free-willed, self-governing human being, sometimes it’s easier to do what’s familiar.
This weekend I stepped out of my comfort zone. Way out. And it was life-changing.
A friend of mine manages a local bar and advertised an event the bar sponsors called “Tour Da Point.” It’s a 13-mile bike ride that visits 6 different taverns in town. Since I like to ride my bike and because I’ve done 12 mile distances before, I decided to sign up.
If I’m being completely honest, I was very nervous about it. I was signing up solo and wasn’t sure I’d know anyone in the group. I worried about being the slowest person in the road crew, and I worried about whether my bike was fancy enough. (Turns out I had nothing to worry about.)
The group of around thirty riders varied in ages. There were college kids, thirty-somethings, forty-year-olds, and several experienced riders in their fifties and sixties. The inclusiveness of this event is what made it so fun. Everyone was supportive and friendly, and nobody judged anyone else.
I learned some things about myself, too:
1. Yes, I am the slowest of the bunch.
But I’m strong. I didn’t quit. Even when I was panicking inside about being the last one in the line, nobody cared but me. Slow and steady wins the race, right? This wasn’t a race, however, and if anything, I was motivated to push myself a little harder.
2. Not knowing everyone is a great incentive to meet new people.
It turned out that I did know two other people in the group, and that helped me feel a little more at ease. In having conversations with them I was introduced to their friends and was brave enough to introduce myself to others. Confidence isn’t something we’re born with, but it’s definitely something we learn when we face our fears by trying new things.
3. Stepping out of my comfort zone builds inner strength.
Trying something new makes me uncomfortable, but what do I learn by doing the same thing everyday? Nothing. I put myself out there, I didn’t give up and I walked away with new friends and great memories. I’m ready to try other challenges now, too!
4. I’m stronger than I think I am.
While I’m no stranger to biking long distances, I’ve definitely avoided some of the tougher routes. I don’t usually bike hills, and this route had a few challenging ones. I realized that I was getting in my own way by worrying about how I looked, whether others were staring at me, or what people were thinking. I finally decided I didn’t care. I was going to push myself and use the gears on my bicycle. I got to the top and I was elated. It was hard. My legs were crying. But I freaking did it!
At the end of our ride I realized that I had this illusion in my head that I couldn’t do it. I was subconsciously sabotaging myself. I was stopping my own growth. When I’m willing to free myself from my own mind and feel as uncomfortable as possible, that’s when real growth begins. My fear was a product of my own thoughts and I was the only person who had the power to destroy it.
Step out of your comfort zone. You won’t regret it!
Hey Dana Jane 