When was the last time you tried something new? The idea might sound scary, but novel experiences can do wonders for your personal growth. It can also challenge you — in a good way — and help you learn about your thoughts, strengths, habits, and emotions. Mental health experts share the benefits of trying new things, plus tips to make it happen.
“It might go against the common belief, but new experiences can actually reduce your stress levels,” shares PsyD Stephanie Steele-Wren. That’s because taking (safe) risks will help you get comfortable with discomfort. As Jillian Amodio, therapist and psychology professor, explains, while trying new things can provoke anxiety, learning how to effectively move through the experience (instead of avoiding it) allows you to grow neural pathways and thought processes that prepare you for future challenges. Steele-Wren shares a similar concept: “If you avoid anything unfamiliar, your body never learns that uncomfortable feelings can pass without anything bad happening.”
“Doing the same old thing day in and day out makes your brain go on autopilot,” Steele-Wren says. However, when you shake up your usual routine, even in small ways, your brain gets a wake-up call. “It keeps your brain sharp and contributes to what we call neuroplasticity (神经可塑性), where your brain is constantly evolving to adapt to all the changes around you,” she says.
The more you try new things, the more confidence you’ll have. As Amodio explains, confidence can be built and grown through lived experiences, specifically through exposure to manageable challenges. Over time, these challenges can develop the self-esteem needed to continue pursuing new things, bigger challenges, and goals.
Some experiences, like volunteering or joining a book club, involve activities with other people. This can pave the way for positive social engagement, which can increase oxytocin (催产素) and reduce stress hormones, Krista Norris, LMFT, says. “Trying new things also expands your worldview, which can help you better relate and connect to others, understand others’ lived experiences more, and create lasting connections with others in your community or circle of inclusion,” Amodio adds.
Now, you don’t have to do something new every day to reap the benefits. Steele-Wren says once a week is a solid starting point, as it’s enough to make a difference without causing overwhelm. While you’re at it, consider these tips.
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