198. unfuckery chronicles 6/15/25: What does ‘Trying Something New’ actually do?!

What happens when you try something new?!

Whether it’s a new class, attending an event or really just getting outside- When you try something new, a lot of things happen—both externally and internally. Here’s a breakdown:

1. ​Your brain lights up.

Literally. New experiences activate the brain’s reward system and spark the growth of new neural pathways, especially in areas related to learning and memory. You’re rewiring yourself—just by showing up.

1. ​Fear and excitement dance together.

That fluttery feeling? It’s your nervous system reacting to the unknown. Trying something new often blends anxiety and anticipation—your body can’t always tell if it’s danger or thrill, but that’s the sweet spot of growth.

1. ​You shake up your routine.

New experiences break the autopilot mode. Suddenly, you’re paying attention again—tasting sharper, noticing more, reacting with intention instead of habit.

1. ​Your confidence builds.

Even if you “fail,” you showed up. You stepped out. That alone is a flex. Every time you do that, your belief in yourself deepens—and that’s way more powerful than being perfect.

1. ​You learn something.

Sometimes it’s a skill. Sometimes it’s a limit. Sometimes it’s “I actually hate hot yoga.” But you’re collecting data about who you are, what you like, what you want, and what’s worth your time.

1. ​It gets easier to keep trying.

Each new step makes the next one less scary. Risk becomes a muscle. So does joy. So does not giving a damn what people think.

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So when you try something new, you’re not just changing your day—you’re changing your brain, your story, and your future. Even if it’s messy. Especially if it is.