By Susan Cox
For The Republic
My youngest son had some extra space in his college class schedule last semester, so he decided it would be fun to take a poetry writing class. Poetry isn’t a part of his major, but he enjoyed the class so much that he is taking another poetry writing class this semester.
Is there something new you would like to try? But you ask, what if I don’t have time to add something new to my life? You could just make some changes to what you already do. For example, you could try new recipes, explore a new route to work, or read a different type of book than you usually do.
But I like my routine and it helps me get things done, so why should I change things? Well, trying something new can spark your creativity and can provide challenges that fuel growth. You might gain new ideas or perspectives that will enable you to appreciate and understand other people, cultures, and world views. You may also develop new skills. Change can be scary, and moving out of your comfort zone can help you develop more courage.
Another big benefit of exploring new activities is the possibility of discovering something you enjoy. My son wouldn’t have learned that he liked writing poetry if he hadn’t taken that first class. Several years ago, I signed up to walk the 5K in the Mill Race Marathon with some friends. One friend wanted to run a few parts, so we ran with her. I had always dismissed running and was perfectly content to walk or ride a bike for exercise. That little bit of running was kind of fun, so I started adding some running to my walks and now I enjoy running regularly. Trying something new with a friend may make the new activity less scary too.
So, where can I find new things to try? Besides providing activities for children and youth, Columbus Parks and Rec also has a variety of activities for adults. You can take swimming or tennis lessons, join a kickball, soccer, or volleyball team, or learn to play pickleball.
The Bartholomew County Public Library also provides a variety of resources to help you try something new. Of course, they have lots of books, but you can check out board games, musical instruments, and video games too! The library has recently added a seed exchange. You select some seeds to plant in the spring and then in the fall you save seeds from your plants to share with other library patrons. Maybe you could try out a new plant in your garden this year. If you want to take a class, you can access language, computers, and a variety of educational and personal development instruction through the library’s online services. You can also try out music creation, video filming, and 3D printing at the Digital Underground.
Volunteering can be another way to try something new. The United Way of Bartholomew County has a list of volunteer opportunities on their website, uwbarthco.org. This route to new experiences adds the benefit of helping other people while you learn about yourself. You can also meet new people when you volunteer.
Moving from winter to spring is a great time to try something new. Additionally, the pandemic seems to be winding down, giving us more opportunities for group activities. I encourage you to try something new, big or small, to add interest to your life. Who knows? You may discover a new hobby like my son has.
