Your Comfort Zone Can Wait

2–4 minutes

A look at how challenging yourself with new experiences early in high school can lead to personal growth, stronger connections, and a more fulfilling experience.

Sanika Yadav

If I could give my freshman self one piece of advice it would be this: Be the one to take initiative, whether that is in a group setting or in your own life. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and pursue what you are interested in. Looking back, I wish I had joined more organizations, gone to a few more events, and taken more chances, especially during those first two years of high school—because that is when it’s easiest to explore, introduce yourself, and eventually find your place.

Like many freshmen, I signed up for several clubs but rarely attended the meetings. I was not truly interested in most of them, and I wish I had taken more time to find clubs or organizations that I had a passion for and to learn more about what they offered. One thing I wish I had done was to try out for a dance team in freshman or sophomore year, regardless of feeling scared. I have always loved dancing, and while I did perform at many rallies, being on a dance team early on would have allowed me to further pursue my interest in dance and refine my skills.

Through this, I realized that clubs, teams, nonprofits, student government, and more—all of these spaces value new members that bring their own perspectives and skills. So, especially in freshman year, it’s important to at least try participating in a few things that interest you. You don’t need to have experience or know people, but showing up is a great first step.

Sophomore year and beyond is when I started getting involved in more things that interested me. I participated in Spirit Week performances every year, performed at rallies, and started attending a few events with friends for clubs that we found interesting. I became a Link Leader, and helped incoming freshmen adjust to campus—something I wanted to do since I was a freshman. All of these experiences helped me grow as I learned how to lead others, communicate with new people, and continue being confident even when there were times of uncertainty.

Through it all, I built genuine connections. Some of them were brief, and some turned into actual friendships. These connections taught me the value of community, and I believe that learning how to build relationships with others is a crucial skill that will be especially meaningful in college and work, where networking, collaboration, and confidence go a long way.

What I have learned is that no one is paying as much attention to you as you think. As a senior, I have realized that everyone is so focused on their lives to judge yours. And whether they do or not, it is still better to take a chance than to wonder what could have happened if you did. You never know what a “yes” or even a “no” can lead to.

So to every underclassman and anyone else: show up to that event. Run for that position. Audition for that team. Pursue your interests. Connect with people. Try to push yourself out of your comfort zone. As cliche as it sounds: High school flies by. Be present, take chances, and make the most of the four years you get.