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Funny Firsts

Have you ever noticed that some of the best things in life feel a little silly the first time we try them? This has hit me in several ways.

Some of my funny firsts include:

Iced Coffee: The 1st time I ever tasted it, Britt gave me a sip of hers, and it was really, really good. But one day when I hit a pothole and the ice in my cup shook, Thomas asked what that sound was - and I literally began laughing at myself when I had to say that it was the ice in my coffee. I still drink it pretty much daily and tell myself that I'm getting extra-hydrated from the ice!

Yoga: The 1st time I did it, I was embarrassed for myself, my yoga mat, and everybody else in the room (no, I did not wear yoga pants). But I do consistently tell people about the health benefits of yoga and stretch regularly.

Selfies: As you can see from the pic, I'm still not good at them. And I don't like taking pictures of myself for the main fact that they destroy the misconception I have in my mind of what I actually look like. But hey, they're fun and give people a real look at the person you are and allow them to put a face with a name and/or online persona.



Running: I had exercised with teams for years. But when I began to workout alone and went for a run with my little watch for the first time, I literally felt like every car that rode by was staring at me wondering why I was out there. But, running is most likely the reason I'm not 50 lbs. heavier than I am.

Earbuds: Yeah, I said it. Earbuds, earphones, headphones - I don't even know what to call them. I would be lying if I said that at first, I'd only use them in my car or in my house. I felt goofy wearing them. But I have enjoyed being able to listen to things without disturbing (or waking up) anyone around me.

Podcasts: Maybe it's just me, but I did feel a little silly when I first started listening to podcasts. I felt pretentious in essentially saying that the radio wasn't good enough for me anymore. I'm not a music person, it just doesn't phase me much one way or the other. I do better staying awake (while driving) or getting focused by listening to spoken words through sermons and motivational speeches.

New Places: One of the toughest for me is going somewhere new. That anxiety about not knowing where to park, which way to walk in, who to talk to, where to sit, etc. But the only way we expand our world (and our network) is to get out of comfort zone and explore new places. The new place one is tough. I've been working out for years, but I can't describe the nervousness I felt when I went to a different gym a few years ago. I was comfortable with the attire and the activity, but the simple change of environment had me messed up. If someone new comes to where you are, do your best to make them feel welcome. And be willing to explore new places, get lost, get confused, and get corrected. That new place or new connection could be life-changing.

What are some of your funny firsts? Something that you knew was good long-term but was a little awkward getting started?

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