Expand Your World
I’ve heard aquarium fish only grow as large as the tank will support. I don’t know if that’s true, but I’m willing to bet it’s spot on for humans when it comes to growth as individuals, whether emotionally, socially, intellectually, or spiritually.
Humans don’t live in aquariums, but many do live strictly within the invisible walls of comfort zones. Some only move beyond them when forced. And like the fish trapped in an aquarium that’s too small, when we operate only within the confines of comfort zones, we stunt our growth.
I can’t speak for you, but I need to grow. In all aspects of my life. I want to break through any wall that prevents me from exploring this world to the fullest. Growth only occurs outside those walls.
What will you do to move beyond your comfort zone today? Tomorrow? Forever?
I have suggestions:
Attend a class on a subject you’ve never explored before. Bonus points if it really, really scares you.
Strike up a conversation with a stranger. Turn them into a friend.
Smile at someone you don’t know. Smile even bigger at those you do.
Take an alternate route to work. Bonus points if you get a little lost.
Stop to help people in need. You will benefit more than they will.
Walk into a new restaurant like you own it. Eat a fine meal and consider the bill a down payment.
Grab a random book off the library shelf and read the first chapter. If you don’t like it, write your own.
Throw a dart at a map and visit where the needle sticks. Bonus points if it’s underwater and you have to learn to scuba dive to get there.
Veer from a well-worn path. Don’t be surprised if people follow.
Always keep an eye open for secret passageways and hidden entrances. Magical worlds and mystical places are closer than you think.
Visit a place of worship for a different religion than yours. You may learn it’s not that different.
Send your resume to another company if you don’t love the one you work for now. If you do love the company you work for, encourage some friends to join you.
Start a side business. Act surprised when it starts to earn you more than your “real” job.
Climb a tree to get a different view. Build a treehouse if you fall in love with that view.
Meditate like you mean it. Meditate even if you don’t mean it.
Eat something you’ve never tried before. If you don’t like it, say so, but give it another chance sometime in the future.
Learn to fly. Bonus points if it’s without a plane.
Tell your significant other something you've never shared with anyone… ever.
Every single one of us is an infinite being who is not meant to be contained. Embrace your true nature and expand your world.
