a leap in the dark

Last night I had a revelation in the shower—where all my great thinking gets done, obviously. I decided that I needed to become more spontaneous.

I’m not sure how others would describe me, but spontaneous is definitely not a word I would use to describe myself. Although I’m always up for trying new things {usually}, I’m rarely the first to suggest it. I love adventure and new experiences, but I usually need a little prompting from others to get me to go out and do it.

But lately, I’ve been feeling like I need something more in my life. I’m pretty stuck in my routine of work, hanging out with friends, going to church, etc. Obviously that’s not bad per se, but it just feels a little stagnant. I get bored easily and right now I feel bored of my own life—never a good thing. Thus, I need spontaneity to encourage me to do new things on a whim to see where it takes me.

From spontaneity comes growth in new experiences. You learn new things about yourself by pushing yourself to do things that you would not ordinarily do. I’m ready to feel free and excited about the prospect of new things again. I don’t think I’ve truly felt “carefree” since college—I was living in Chicago, getting to do new and exciting things every day. I want that back, without having to run off somewhere else to find it.

The plan* is to start small. Be positive. And embrace the unknown. (*planning to be spontaneous… quite the oxymoron)

Inspired to be spontaneous with me? Here are some ideas to get us started…

• Start by saying “yes” more
• Color your hair a shade you’ve always wanted to try but never dared to do
• Take a last minute trip someplace you’ve always wanted to go—near or far
• Call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while
• Stop a stranger and compliment them on their outfit
• Go skinny dipping ;)
• Go to a movie in the middle of the day
• Try a new food
• Get in your car and just drive

“All growth is a leap in the dark, a spontaneous, unpremeditated act without benefit of experience.” Henry Miller