I little while ago I took on something that was a bit of a challenge for me. I helped some friends develop a new look for their website.
I've done work on websites before, but not with quite this level of responsibility. It was a little scary, but it was an amazing feeling when it was all done, running well and looking pretty. I learned some css (a kind of computer language) and generally had a blast helping a team whose heart it is to tell folks about Jesus and build community. Woohoo!
We grow when we stretch ourselves. Living in what is known is comfortable, but it doesn't challenge our thinking or our abilities. I think we are healthier and just more interesting when we are learning new ideas or taking on a new challenge (I'm not knocking the known, just saying we need the occasional challenge too).
So why not try something new? Learn to speak Spanish. Visit a nearby museum with works by an artist you've never heard of. Read a book about sex and try a new position. Start a blog. (It's OK to invite your husband along on the journey. He might enjoy the adventure as well as the company!)
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. Neale Donald Walsch
Image credit (c) big island faith
How do you want to spend your time? ~ Opportunity Cost (from The Generous Husband)
Are you practicing humility, gentleness, and patience with your spouse? ~ Monday Marriage Devotional: Ephesians 4:2-3 (from Making Love in a Microwave)
I agree that taking on a new challenge is both exciting and scary. I have wanted for a long time to write about health and happiness for women, and have recently taken on the challenge of blogging about those topics. It is somewhat terrifying right now, but hopefully will be thrilling in the future! I am also working on increasing my physical activity (particularly strength training, which I hate) and improving my family’s diet (it’s already pretty good, but I want it to be very good). Gee, I may have taken on too many projects at one time… Gaye
Comment by Gaye — August 2, 2012 @ 5:53 am
Great advice, Lori. For an added plus, learning something new with your spouse can rekindle romance in your relationship. Here’s a link to an article about a research study on this: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/12/health/12well.html?_r=2 And if you don’t know what “new thing” to try, I recommend dancing. It’s a great way for spouses to spend some time face-to-face and connect!
Comment by MarriageDance — August 2, 2012 @ 11:27 am