As a junior in college, it would be safe to assume that I have settled into a routine. I know who I am going to hang out with, where my classes are, and what my weekly activities have become. For most of us, familiarity is a source of comfort. In fact, I remember wanting to be “dialed in” as a freshman. Three years later, I have that, and I am less than thrilled. This is because conventionality has replaced our inclination to try new things.

Once things become normal, they are no longer challenging. When we are challenged, we are forced to step outside of our comfort zone, which elicits growth. Take a second to reflect on your freshman year. More often than not, a lot of development occurs during that first year away from home. You are no longer surrounded by your family or the classmates that you’ve known since kindergarten. Personally, I remember trying extra hard to make new friends and a schedule that was suitable for me. Through this, I came across different types of people and perspectives. Internally, I realized the characteristics that I looked for in friends and I was able to form my own opinions outside of what I knew growing up. Living in a new setting required me to put myself out there and the payoff was considerable.

For the record, I am not saying that routine is a bad thing. I am asking you if your life has turned into a predictable series of events that keeps you from putting yourself out there. If the answer is yes, I also recognize that predictability is a whole lot easier than novelty. Most of you would agree that talking to someone for the first time requires more effort than talking to your best friend. However, there is something so refreshing and rewarding about experiencing change. To prove my point, I had coffee with a sorority sister that I hadn't previously gotten to know. It was fun to learn more about her and comforting to know that we have a lot in common. I am also excited by this new found friendship.

The saying goes, " life begins at the edge of your comfort zone". Trying new things can be scary, so start small. Leave your bubble every once in a while.