There is something special about doing something for the first time. It’s invigorating, exciting, and makes us feel alive. It’s also new and has the chance to mix up the established patterns and behaviors in our lives.

Here’s the first (and obvious) take-away for this week: do something that is a first for you! 

When we think of what this might be, we recognize that many typical firsts may already be behind us. Trying to come up with new firsts may lead us to create a list of high-thrill items – things that go above and beyond what we have done in the past. In this case, we need to change our approach to finding firsts.

As we try to create a list of possibilities, a little voice in the back of our minds analyzes and evaluates our ideas: “Will I like this?” “Will I be good at this?” “How does this make me look?” “Is this a good thing to do?” and many other questions come up right away. This makes us discard many ideas very quickly. The catch about this little voice: it’s speaking to us based on our past experiences, and its advice is really good at keeping us in the past. It also means that we remain stuck within our established patterns and limitations.

Once we’re aware of this, it’s tempting to try and shut this little voice down (at least occasionally). But this little voice is actually pretty strong and doesn’t want to be silenced. Instead of trying to get it to be quiet, a better way to handle this is to first become aware of the voice, gently talk to it, and then move on. (Think of this little voice as a five-year-old who wants undue attention.)

This is the second takeaway for the week: As you come up with new firsts, be aware of this little voice and talk to it: “Thank you for your comments – now, let’s come up with more ideas of firsts that we could do,” and move on.
This is the way to create a list of real firsts – not just the ones that your past allows you to create.

Take the next step

Brainstorm a list of firsts – anything considered a first can go on the list. It’s not important whether it’s bold, makes you look smart, or is something noteworthy. It can be any of these – or none of them.

Then, pick from the list and do those things.

PS: As you do your new firsts, again, pay attention to your little voice. It’ll tell you right away whether you liked something, should do it again, or think you’re good at it. But none of this matters. Instead, focus on what opens up for you and what you experience as you encounter the new.