When was the last time you pushed yourself out of your comfort zone?

Over the last few years, I feel that I have become predictable. Partly because of things outside my control, but also because of prioritizing work more frequently, and becoming too comfortable. Don’t get me wrong — there’s nothing wrong with stability. But for me, life is about experiencing things, not stability.

Because of this, I decided that this will be my year to get out, explore, and have fun.

The first thing on my list: Embracing winter. As a kid, I loved playing in the snow, building forts, and ice skating until my fingers were icicles. I decided to recapture that love.

I looked for a charming town that would fit the bill, and Collingwood checked all of the boxes: 2hrs from home, ski resort and trails, skating and great shops. Booked!

The town greeted me with a blistering -25C, but it was sunny, so I geared up and got ready for some skiing fun.

On my first run, I took it easy, challenging myself within reason. Done; let’s go again. Then I got inside my own head. I’m not sure what happened, but I started to second guess myself. My skis tangled up, and the combo of the balaclava, helmet, and goggles got me feeling out of control. I’m usually pretty fearless, but I was scared.

I made it down the hill, heart racing, and I couldn’t get the gear off fast enough. It was such an odd feeling: not good or bad, but oddly exhilarating. I felt so out of my comfort zone for the first time in ages.

This isn’t a post on how I overcame my “fear” and dominated the hill. The reality? I coasted my way back and enjoyed the Après Ski and reflected.

What it made me realize is how content I’ve been with being comfortable. I’d become complacent and wasn’t challenging myself like I used to. Does this mean I should strap on the skis again and try some aerials or moguls? Absolutely not. But would I go skiing again? For sure.

I realized that I need to challenge myself again, but it doesn’t need to be crazy. You can avoid injury while still getting out of your comfort zone, and I think pushing yourself in that way is important.

What about you? When was the last time you pushed yourself?