By: Seth Impson

When was the last time you did something for the first time? For many people, trying something new can be scary and intimidating. When you try something new, you are putting yourself out there in a position where failure is a real possibility. That can be nerve-wracking. But if you skip new opportunities because you are afraid or simply don’t have the time, you might be missing out on something really great.

Trying something new doesn’t have to be extreme. It could simply be changing up something you already enjoy. Do you like to cook? Find a recipe from an unfamiliar cuisine and make a meal for you and your friends. Love running? Take a route through a new park or trail. Big reader? Join a book club or try a book you wouldn’t normally choose.

Routines can definitely be comforting, but you don’t want to get in a boring rut. In her article  How to Get out of a Rut, psychologist Kendra Cherry says that being stuck in a rut can lead to feeling dissatisfied, unmotivated or even depressed. In cases like this, trying something new and getting out of your comfort zone could be really good for your mental health. 

There are many benefits to trying something new. According to writer Katherine Brooks, new experiences are good for your emotional health. When you experience something new, your brain produces dopamine which actually makes you feel happier. Brooks says that if you’re looking for something new to try, ask yourself these questions to get ideas:

  • What were you doing the last time you really had fun?  
  • What things do you look forward to?  
  • What were the experiences that made you feel fulfilled?  
  • What do you want to do more of and less of?  
  • What do you want your relationships with yourself, partner, family and friends to look like? 

If you need even more inspiration, check out what these Senators have recently tried for the first time. 

“The last time I tried something new was this past weekend when I cooked breakfast for the family on my new Blackstone for the first time. It made me feel sleepy because that mound of stuffed hashbrowns was amazing! I took a nap shortly thereafter.” -Mr. Hebb, literature/AVID teacher and head football coach

“I recently started playing tennis and it has been an enjoyable season so far. I played tennis when I was younger but let it go as I got older. I didn’t think I would be able to play 2 sports with the same seasons since I’m also a cheerleader but I’m making it work. It has made me feel that I am capable of doing anything.” -Daija Lott, senior

“Last night at 7:21 PM (Dinner time), I made and ate pumpkin chili. It was delicious. It made me realize the potential of other possible food combinations and how their flavors interact. Makes me want to cook more. I feel energized and confident. I feel like Remy from the movie Ratatouille.” -Mr. Wiedeman, science teacher

“I tried making a pizza on a Komodo Grill this past weekend.  I made two of them and they TURNT out great !!!  I can’t wait to do another one soon.  I love trying new things.  I try to experience as many new and different opportunities as possible.” -Mr. Troemper, assistant baseball coach 

“I joined the newspaper staff this year. It was out of my comfort zone, but it’s actually been pretty nice. It’s a great group of people.” -Ty Dyson, senior