Stepping out of my comfort zone

I seem to be doing this a lot lately!

In the words of one of my favourite business and finance mentors, Alan Donegan (Rebel Donegans), "Everything you want in life is outside your comfort zone". So, with those words ringing in my ears......

In the last few months, I have:

1. Started working in retail (something I have never done before, unless you count pumping petrol post-high school for a few months?)
2. Designed and published this website. I had constructed one years ago, that was for the purpose of running workshops in our farm woolshed (a story for another day).
3. Just signed up to submit some pieces in a local Affordable Art Exhibition! Eeeek!!! (I have never exhibited any art before - I barely even show my friends what I do)

Firstly, what a great idea to make art more accessible to people, especially in these tough economic times. And secondly, it feels less intimidating, to have a chance to exhibit an artwork without the pressure of a gallery setting or an exhibition in your own name.

A few months ago, during a meditation, the thought bubbled up that I should have a 'koha' exhibition. I could present a small selection of pieces at our local museum/art gallery and people could give a donation or pay what they could afford for an artwork that they loved. That is still in the back of my mind, but this Affordable Exhibition feels like it is a perfect way to dip my toe in the water and be a little bit brave without having to fully jump in.

So, I have taken the plunge and emailed my interest! As from today, I have 26 days to decide, refine and finish a few pieces to show!!!

How does one not let the self-doubt creep in? Then I remember the words of one of my favourite podcasters, Mel Robbins - "Let Them" - let people think what they think and then let me do it anyway. At the end of my life, I don't want to have any regrets, and I feel as though not following through with my art would be one of those regrets. 

So, I will keep you posted on how I get on with the upcoming exhibition, what pieces I choose and what the whole experience was like.  

Wish me luck!

What would you love to do that is outside your comfort zone?

Have you already done something (big or tiny), that has pushed you forward, something your younger self may not have done?