Getting Out of the Norm: A Simple Guide for a Busy Mind

“Getting out of the norm” doesn’t mean you have to know exactly what you’re looking for. It’s more about stepping outside of your usual routines and being open to exploring new things. It’s like shaking up your day just enough to notice something different.

Our brains love autopilot—it’s comfortable, easy, and familiar. But when you’re always in autopilot mode, you stop noticing what’s happening around you. Think about coasting downhill on your bike as a kid. It feels great at first, but when you realize you’re not in control, panic sets in. Your thoughts work the same way. When your brain is coasting, it can drift to random, unexpected places. Instead of staying focused on the present, your mind gets pulled away, often by worries or distractions you didn’t see coming.

To break out of that cycle and take control, here are a few simple steps:

1. Start Small: Big changes aren’t necessary to shake things up. Try small shifts like taking a different route to work, trying a food you’ve never eaten before, or reading about a topic you know nothing about. These little changes can wake up your mind.

2. Follow Your Curiosity: What have you always wondered about or wanted to try? Maybe it’s a hobby you never got into or something that made you excited as a kid. Let those sparks of curiosity be your guide.

3. Explore the Unfamiliar: Visit a new place, watch a documentary on a subject you’ve never thought about, or talk to someone with a completely different perspective. New experiences can inspire ideas and thoughts you didn’t expect.

4. Experiment Without Pressure: There’s no need to make a big plan or commitment. Just try something new and see how it feels. No expectations, no pressure—just exploration.

5. Take Time to Reflect: After trying something new, take a moment to notice how it made you feel. Did it energize you? Did it bore you? Use those feelings as a compass to decide what to try next.

Remember, getting out of the norm isn’t about having a set goal or destination. It’s about creating movement and opening yourself to fresh possibilities. You don’t need to have it all figured out—just take a step. As you explore, you’ll start to uncover what feels right for you. The important part is to start paying attention, even if it’s just for a few moments at a time. That’s how you begin to take back control from the autopilot and stay present.