When was the last time you did something for the first time?

My Latest Top 7 Firsts

This life gives us many opportunities to show up as our best self. It is quite challenging when still at home under strict isolation or lockdown restrictions. Even if the country you’re in is opening up slowly, there’s plenty we want to do but can’t.

In light of the feeling of restriction I want to talk about firsts. Our first time at something.

When was the last time you did something for the first time? Your first weekend away? Your first holiday without family. The first kiss, the first friend you made, the first time you drank coffee?

The last time I did something outstanding for the first time was probably last September in Croatia when I drove for the better part of our travels on the right (wrong) side of the road. Also dining at a hill top restaurant looking over the entirety of Dubrovnik, yep you guessed it, also on my travels. But I’m doing myself a disservice. I could pick smaller moments.

Work

On last Monday I helped host a live online fitness workout for work. I’ve never done that before – it felt like we were working on a very shabby set but nonetheless it was a laugh as much as it was work. 

Travel Chats Podcast

I’ve also never hosted a podcast before, so that’s definitely a first. The Travel Chats Podcast is a space for me and co-host Danielle, to talk about travel, life and countries we love. Listen here!

5k For The NHS

During lockdown I went for a 5k run. It’s not my first 5k ever, I’ve run for Cancer Research and took part in the Colour Fun Run. I did donate to the NHS but it was the first time I did a 5k without moaning, without someone pushing me. I was on the sofa unable to move properly afterwards but it was worth it. I felt great about myself. A friend of mine did it on her end too and we motivated each other. Questionable prep method (having not prepped my body leading up to the run, hence sofa-bound for a week). It was a first.

Beach Day – Taking The Boat Out

I went to Seaford to a place called Cuckmere Haven where you can see the Seven Sisters cliffs, which were striking – they are chalky white. This was at the weekend and the first time I’ve been to the coast this year. YUP, THIS YEAR. We are in September. And this has been the longest I’ve been away from the sea since I was 18.

BSL

Finally, I started learning British Sign Language. I’m nowhere near finished but at least I started something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. I’ve always been partially deaf in one ear and wanted to communicate with those who were completely Deaf.

Swimming with confidence

Earlier this year I happily swam in an outdoor pool by myself (yes it was winter) – no lifeguards, nobody else for a good twenty minutes. I just swam laps up and down. It may not be public knowledge, but I used to have no confidence swimming at all. So this one is a proud moment and a first – swimming on my own in an outdoor pool in the UK.

Jericho Writers Festival

Joined the Jericho Writers Festival. It felt weird investing my money in this festival. If it was a music festival or a holiday I wouldn’t think twice. Which is crazy because this was a huge investment in my writing and myself. I’ve studied writing at University and thought I knew it all. Oh, how wrong I was. I’ve met incredible people (writer friends), learnt from amazing speakers from the publishing industry and I’m confident about my current work-in-progress (the Australia book).

The last time you did something for the first time doesn’t simply apply to the big and outstanding life events. Everything counts. Whether it’s your first home-brewed coffee or even working from home. You did it and you’ve achieved something from it. Let’s be kind to ourselves and proud of our achievements, however big or small.