Rolling Into Something New: Skating, Stumbling and Smiling

There’s something both terrifying and exhilarating about trying something new. It shakes you out of your comfort zone, and reminds you that growth often comes with a little wobble—quite literally, in my case.

I decided to step outside my comfort zone and take up roller skating. I didn’t expect to fall in love with it so quickly, but here I am: lacing up my skates whenever I get the chance, and yes—still falling from time to time.

It’s not just physical exercise. It’s therapy. It’s fun. Its challenging. Its connection—with others, with music, and with my own body. I have met such a wonderful bunch of ladies through skating. I highly recommend signing up to a class. My lovely skate teacher - Donna - has taught me so much and her passion is infectious. It’s been so lovely to meet new friends, in my 40s, with a shared interest. We laugh (a lot), we chat, we create routines and we wear lots of fab outfits and sequins! Skating gets me outside in the sunshine and going for a rollerskate with Hazel is just pure happiness.

Trying something new always involves a bit of fear. And I still get a bit scared or occasionally the thought that I might look a bit silly starts to creep in. But I SHUT THAT DOWN. On the other side of that fear is discovery, joy and small victories. Roller skating has reminded me to find time for myself and to do things just for the sheer fun of it.

So here’s your nudge: Try something new. Let it be imperfect. Don’t be afraid to look silly. Fail and then try again. Let it be fun. And who knows—you might just roll into your next passion.