As of late, all I want to do is try new things. This year, growth and skill improvement are on the forefront. So, I challenge myself daily to a rigorous set of learning and practice. Everything I focus on must align with my primary goals.
Holding Myself Accountable
Sometimes it seems like I decide not to try new things because the cost becomes a waste if I don’t enjoy it. Often talking myself out of trying before even starting. I wonder how many others struggle with this same issue? Fortunately, that was the old me.
By sharing my efforts with all of you, I hope to inspire more people to try new things. You never know how far a new skill or mastered craft could take you.
Try New Things – Language
Recently, I took up learning three new languages: Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin. I probably sound crazy at this point, but stick with me. When I heard of the free opportunity to learn offered by Duolingo.com (not a paid promotion), I jumped at the chance.
Initially, I chose Spanish, something I learned in high school but never speaking it, due to admitted fear. As a result, I wasted the grammar and vocabulary skills I previously learned quite a bit. I loved that when I selected the language, it offered me a way to test ahead to my current skill level. For the record, I tested well enough to open 27 skills.
After messing around for over an hour, my curiosity got the best of me, and I looked for a way to add a second language. To my great surprise, the free edition allows for multiple languages. My husband was born in the Azores, part of Portugal, so I chose Portuguese. I consider it similar to Spanish and will be able to practice with him. Then thought, well, I might as well add Mandarin as it is incredibly useful.
So here I am, learning three languages essentially by accident. The Mandarin definitely will be a slower process, but I am enjoying every bit of all three. My goal was to try new things, so that is what I am doing.
Commitment:
Practice all three languages: Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin at least five days per week. I will spend a minimum of ten minutes working on each. And, will practice speaking Portuguese with my husband.
Consequence:
No cell phone for 48 hours.
Try New Things – Consistent Exercise
Winter, an injury, and moving did not help with making a habit out of exercising regularly. I move around more throughout the day, but the cold, wet winter kept me too cozy and indoors. My threshold for the cold kept me away from the calisthenics park that I love. Yes, I agree not a great excuse, but it happened. Warm weather is rolling in now, yay!
In the past week, I purchased the QuietPunch (affiliate link – helps us continue to grow). So far, I genuinely enjoy it. Each time, I walk by I take a minute or two (or more) to practice a few hits. For years, I have had built up lymph in my upper arm area near both armpits. My mini-tramp did not do enough. Then, with the carnivore diet, the size lessened but did not drain completely.
To my great surprise, this morning, I noticed that the area is shrinking. I genuinely love the product. The product is simple to install and use around the house. It takes up little space and keeps quiet compared to other types of bags.
A pull-up bar, the QuietPunch, floor space to do push-ups, and walking areas nearby make up my new gym. The calisthenics park will work as my weekend retreat.
Commitment:
Work with Quiet Punch for five minutes or more per day. Do calisthenics work (pull-ups, push-ups, etc.) at least three days per week.
Consequence:
Must post video of doing 100 push-ups per day for a week.
Try New Things – Expanding Art Skills
First Head Sculpture 
Unicorn Multiple Angles 
Monkey Close-Up 
From Clay Ball to Sea Turtle 
Try New Things
With art, the concept of “try new things” acts as the norm. You never know which medium you will love the most. I primarily find myself drawn to paper and pencil, but love so much more than that. Turning those pencil drawings into digital art takes a close second.
My husband and I took up woodworking to build our a large storage bed for ourselves. Admittedly, my husband, so far, chooses to do most of the work. He learns better that way, and since this is his passion project, I offer my services as an assistant and suggestion generator.
In visiting wood crafting and supplies stores, I became interested in woodcarving again. Now, I have never done and woodcarving, but I wanted to as a young child. My parents did not allow it due to my age. The cost of entry, meaning to buy tools and practice wood, seemed a bit high at the moment. Consequently, I took a look at clay sculpting. So, I am giving that a go now. Ideally, I will sculpt characters and objects to match my pencil and digital work.
Commitment:
Utilize all purchased clay. Work on artwork at least 6 days per week. Share progress and improvements.
Consequence:
Give away a favorite piece of artwork for free.
You Can Do It Too!
I shouldn’t be having all of the fun. Trying new things gives an excellent opportunity for learning, practicing, and greater fulfillment throughout your day. Remember, suffering is the key to happiness. So, why not suffer through the early, tough stages of something that excites you.
I challenge you to go out and try something new. If you want to make it a habit you must practice to master your skills. Make a public announcement at whatever level you can. Give yourself consequences for giving up. The consequences should be a punishment, but completion of the punishment should add benefit or value to your life. Also, most importantly, make sure whatever you try aligns with your more significant goals for improvement.
Please feel free to share what you will try with us in the comments below or by email at emails@dirtywindshield.com.