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“When was the last time you did something for the first time?” Garry Ridge, WD-40 CEO

I read this question in an article about 10 years ago, and it struck me to the core. This simple, yet provocative question fuels continuous learning, an elemental ingredient to long-term success.

This question moves you from your Comfort Zone to your Learning Zone.

Learning only occurs when we have stretched beyond our current awareness – from resolving dissonance. And the only way to do that is to try something new.

Not everything needs to be a bold move. Even a modest departure from the norm can yield results. Albeit incremental.

Everyday “Easy” Firsts:
✔ Trying a new cuisine
✔ Taking a different route to work
✔ Exploring the left trail instead of the right
✔ Trying ChatGPT

These are the kinds of things with little adverse consequence should things not turn out well. Yet they build our tolerance for change.

We move the needle on learning the most when we get those butterflies in our bellies, our heart is racing, and we really don’t know how things will work out.

Firsts that may lead to sleepless nights:
✔ Taking on a new role
✔ Volunteering to be a high school coach (my current daily barrage of firsts)
✔ Presenting to an audience of 100
✔ Running a Half Marathon

These are the new experiences that often open doors to new pathways, provide perspective, develop a new skill, or simply make you realize it was not nearly as scary as you had anticipated. In some cases, it may be that you learn the grass is not always greener. But at least you’ll know.

So, the next time you are presented with an opportunity break from the norm… do it!