When you hear “it’s time for an adventure,” you are probably either cringing or totally excited. Adventures often mean leaving your comfort zone and for some that just isn’t appealing. As Roy T. Bennett says in The Light in The Heart, “The comfort zone is a psychological state in which one feels familiar, safe, at ease, and secure.  If you always do what is easy and choose the path of least resistance, you never step outside your comfort zone. Great things don’t come from comfort zones.” We want you to find great things, which is why we are hoping you will celebrate National Adventure Month with us this August. So join us, it’s time for an adventure.

First, what kind of adventure are you looking for? Do you want to get your adrenaline flowing? If you aren’t scared to get a little adrenaline rush we suggest trying out some more intermediate to advanced hikes that may also have extra perks, such as climbing Bald Mountain and then the lookout tower there, or when you see the options for the easy trail, don’t take it, try the hard one! Sure you can walk a lovely path and that is an adventure, but if you want to get that endorphin rush look for new trails that take you higher and will challenge you! If you are willing to shell out a little money you might be interested in some water rafting, water skiing or even a ropes course or zip line. If you love biking but want some thrills check out the Kingdom Trails for some rougher terrain.

Adventures don’t always have to be climbing mountain tops or riding the waves behind a speed boat. There are other adventures that may be calling you out of your comfort zone like taking a new class, trying out a different beach or even finally walking a new path you’ve heard about. Maybe you want to try camping out in a tent or start with a cabin. Think of something you have told yourself you’d like to do or that you think you can’t do, because chances are you really can. The best people to ask for advice are the people who are always talking about it. If you have a friend or family member that is always talking about a waterfall, chances are it really is that spectacular and they would love to go with you or help you plan how to see it! The first part of being adventurous is starting that plan.

Once you’ve got a plan and step out of that comfort zone and into the adventure zone you might at first feel a little scared, out of control and anxious, but if you see it through that can all change to building your confidence, ability to try new things and a desire to embrace adventure. Learning to be adventurous will help you build your skills and usually makes one a better leader. You will know what it is like to try new things and succeed, even if it takes more than one try. Being an adventurer can also keep you young. When you have new things to look forward to it helps with a brighter outlook and may also increase your daily happiness level. August is also National Happiness month, so that’s a double dip of goodness this month.

Locally there are so many different adventures you can take whether you are here in the NEK or anywhere else in the world. Almost every town has undiscovered or underutilized treasures. Ask your friends what they like to do!  They might even invite you along for some fun you don’t know about! Don’t be scared to invite friends or family to join you too! You won’t only get an adventure but surely some motivation, support and encouragement that you may need while venturing out of that comfort zone. If you are more of a solo adventure mission person, that is fine too, but if you are going into remote areas you should let someone know your whereabouts and make sure you have all the tools and supplies for safety. Same goes for bringing a pet- make sure they have all the water and food they may need too.

So get out there already! Trying new things takes motivation and perseverance and you can do it. Make a detailed plan and stick to it! Pick your date, time and adventure and see it through! We just know that not only will you be proud of yourself, but you may also find a new passion and purpose while doing it. Adventures big or small, locally or out of town, and we suppose even in or out of your comfort zone. August is the perfect time of year to try a new quest! Ready, set go!  It’s time for an adventure!

 

Mary Hoadley – Director of The Wellness Center