The Benefits of Trying Something New This Year

13 minutes ago
3 min read

Written by: Emani Smith

Publish Date: 02/06/2026

Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I’ve always wanted to try that… but maybe later”?

Maybe it was joining a club, learning a new skill, or signing up for something that sounded fun but also a little intimidating. It is easy to stay comfortable with what you already know, especially when school, activities, and responsibilities start piling up.

But trying something new can make a bigger difference than you might expect.

New experiences help you grow, build confidence, and discover interests you did not even know you had. When people step outside their comfort zones, they learn important skills like problem-solving, communication, and resilience. These experiences help prepare you not just for school, but for life beyond it.

Trying something new is not about being perfect. It is about being curious, open, and willing to give yourself a chance.

Why Trying Something New Matters

Trying new things helps you:

Build confidence by proving you can handle challenges
Learn how to adapt when things change
Discover new passions and strengths
Improve social and communication skills
Create memories and experiences that shape your future

Growth happens when you are willing to try, even when something feels unfamiliar.

5 Fun Things You Can Try This Year

Not sure where to start? Here are some easy and realistic ideas students can try.

1. Join a New Club or Activity

From art and music to sports, gaming, or student leadership groups, joining something new helps you meet people and feel more connected to your school community.

2. Learn a New Skill

Try cooking, photography, video editing, coding, drawing, or playing an instrument. Learning new skills builds confidence and gives you something new to be proud of.

3. Volunteer in Your Community

Helping at community events, food pantries, libraries, or animal shelters allows you to give back while building experience and learning responsibility.

4. Set a Personal Challenge

Create a goal just for you. This could be reading more, improving in one class, getting more active, or practicing better time management. Small goals can lead to big growth.

5. Try a Leadership Opportunity

Run for a class position, help lead a group project, or mentor younger students. Leadership experiences help strengthen communication, teamwork, and confidence.

Feeling Nervous Is Completely Normal

Feeling nervous about trying something new is normal. In fact, it usually means you care. Your brain is reacting to change and unfamiliar situations, which is something everyone experiences.

Being nervous does not mean you are not capable. It simply means you are stepping outside your comfort zone. That feeling should not stop you, because confidence is built through action, not waiting until fear disappears.

Most people who try new things feel unsure at first. The difference is that they take the step anyway. Once you start, the nervousness often fades and is replaced with excitement and pride.

You do not have to be perfect. You just have to be willing.

Make This Your Year to Explore

This year does not have to be about having everything figured out. It can be about exploring new interests, learning from experiences, and growing along the way.

Trying something new might help you discover: