By Karen Hough, Founder and CEO, ImprovEdge

When was the Last Time You Did Something for the First Time?

I had never surfed. I love watersports like skiing, swimming and boarding under the tow of a motorboat. However, I was always a little afraid to try surfing – there just seemed to be something dangerous about the waves and board control. Then my daughter started to surf and encouraged me to join her in a lesson on vacation.

When we were children, trying new things was a daily occurrence. Whether it was tasting a new food, learning to ride a bike, or picking up a musical instrument, we embraced the unknown with curiosity and resilience. As adults, however, we often settle into routines, relying on familiar skills and experiences. While routines provide stability, they can also create a comfort zone that limits personal growth. Stepping outside that zone by trying something new can be transformative, unlocking benefits for both personal and professional life.

I loved surfing! I did OK in my lesson and am eager to try it again soon – it made me think about balance, patience, timing, and being willing to go back many times over to find the perfect moment. Important lessons for a business leader. As I looked up research on the topic of new things, I found some great benefits, too.

The Benefits of Embracing New Experiences as an Adult

1. Boosts Cognitive Function
   Learning something new challenges the brain, forming new neural connections and strengthening memory and problem-solving skills. Studies show that engaging in novel activities—whether learning a new language, playing an instrument, or taking up a new sport—can help slow cognitive decline and improve overall brain health.
2. Enhances Resilience and Adaptability
   Adulthood often brings a fear of failure that prevents us from trying new things. But by pushing past discomfort, we develop resilience. Each time we navigate the unfamiliar, we become more adaptable and confident in handling change, an essential skill in today’s fast-paced world.
3. Sparks Creativity
   Trying something new stimulates creativity. When we step outside our usual thought patterns, we make unexpected connections and see challenges from different perspectives. This innovation is valuable not only in personal projects but also in the workplace, where creative problem-solving is highly sought after.
4. Builds Social Connections
   New experiences often bring us into contact with new people, whether it’s through a class, a hobby group, or a professional training session. Building new relationships expands our network and exposes us to diverse perspectives, enriching both our personal and professional lives. I heard great stories from our surf instructor and we ended up going to some places we wouldn’t have known about if not for that interaction.
5. Increases Confidence and Self-Esteem
   Mastering a new skill, no matter how small, gives a sense of achievement. This confidence carries over into other areas, making us more willing to take risks and seize opportunities in both our careers and personal lives. I feel more confident to try something new again now that surfing worked out alright.

The Workplace Analogy: The Value of Stretch Assignments

Trying something new as an adult is much like taking on a stretch assignment at work. In a professional setting, stretch assignments push employees beyond their current expertise, challenging them to develop new skills and perspectives. These assignments often lead to professional growth, increased visibility, and career advancement.

Imagine an experienced marketing professional who has always worked in digital advertising but is given a stretch assignment to lead an event marketing project. At first, the unfamiliar territory may feel overwhelming. However, by embracing the challenge, they develop new strategic thinking skills, build relationships with event planners, and gain confidence in a new aspect of their field.

The same principles apply outside of work. When we challenge ourselves to try something new—whether it’s public speaking, learning to code, or taking an improv class—we cultivate the ability to learn, adapt, and grow. Just like in a stretch assignment, the process may feel uncomfortable, but the benefits are long-lasting and often lead to unexpected opportunities.

How to Get Started

If you’re ready to embrace new experiences but aren’t sure where to start, consider these steps:

• Identify an area of curiosity – What have you always wanted to try but never pursued?
• Start small – You don’t have to overhaul your life; small changes, like trying a new workout or joining a book club, can have a big impact.
• Adopt a learner’s mindset – Accept that you won’t be perfect right away and focus on progress over perfection.
• Seek a community – Learning with others can make the experience more enjoyable and keep you accountable.
• Celebrate your progress – Acknowledge every milestone, no matter how small, to build momentum and confidence.

Trying something new as an adult isn’t just about adding a hobby to your routine—it’s about growth, resilience, and embracing the unknown. Just as stretch assignments in the workplace help employees build new skills and gain confidence, stepping outside your comfort zone in life can unlock new opportunities and enrich your personal and professional journey. So, what’s one new thing you’ll try today?