The spirit of adventure
Getting out of your comfort zone can make you feel happy and confident.
How does it feel when you try something new? Whether you love the buzz of a new experience or are just curious to try something different, being adventurous can help you feel brave and learn what you’re capable of. What does being adventurous mean? Being adventurous means exploring and discovering new things. It’s challenging yourself to have a go at something, even when you’re not sure what the outcome will be. You don’t have to climb a big mountain or trek through jungles to have an adventure; they can be all around you. Exploring your neighbourhood and discovering new places is an adventure; or tasting a different type of food can be adventurous if you’ve never tried it before. The Week Junior reader Ronnie, aged 13, says, “When I go on walks I like to look for trees to climb or things to play around because I find it exciting and it makes me happy.”
Why is being adventurous good for you?
Belinda Kirk is an adventurer and author of the book
Adventure Revolution. She has crossed a desert in China in search of camels and discovered ancient rock paintings in southern Africa. Kirk says that being adventurous can make you feel free, more confident and help you understand yourself better. “When you’re halfway up a mountain you get this natural high and a feeling of extreme empowerment,” says Kirk. “You become more brave and confident, and you think, ‘What else can I do?’” Exploring outdoors can also mean getting active and spending time in nature. Both are great for boosting happiness and reducing stress.
How can you be more adventurous?
Kirk says adventures can be found everywhere, including camping in the garden, climbing a tree, or even just wrapping up warm and going for a walk in the cold. Trying new hobbies or cooking new recipes are also great ways to be more adventurous. “When you push yourself out of your comfort zone, that’s when you learn who you are and what you can do. It’s where the magic happens,” says Kirk.