The other night I decided to do something completely out of my comfort zone and out of character for me.

It started with an email from the secretary of an organisation that I belong to, with an invitation. The branch in my home town was having a meeting, part of which was a talk on the branch’s longest-serving secretary, who had been in the role for 43 years. This 25-minute talk was fascinating, and it was really nice to see how things were done there, compared to my normal group. I don’t attend the one in my home town, because at the time I joined they met on an evening when I was routinely at work, so I had to go further afield.

The one thing I forgot about was the fact that, as a visitor, you are expected to stand up and say a few words to introduce yourself to the group. This was where, I must admit, I surprised myself. I was a little deer in the headlights to start with if I’m honest, but I didn’t do too badly.

Afterwards, I realised that I had managed to do something that I wouldn’t have normally thought possible. Visiting a strange, unfamiliar place, without anyone else there to support me, and not knowing anyone there either. At the end of the night, I had made a few new friends and, as a result, I’m now looking at other branches to visit and maybe make some more friends. I know – steady on, Bob, you could end up with a social life!

The main thing I’ve learnt is that if I push myself outside of my comfort zone, the results can be surprising. So it may seem scary at the time, but the results may be spectacular, though I know that’s not always the case.

Stay Safe X