I've been a very shy kid for most of my life. I didn't talk to anyone unless they talked to me first. I never wanted to step out of my comfort zone. I hated the idea of doing something different. I was afraid of amusement park rides. I even hated swimming, because I wasn't good at it. I was just lazy. Yeah, life was pretty boring. I lived like this until about 3 years ago.

It was junior year and Halloween was right around the corner. This would be the first time I would ever go inside a haunted house. I was so nervous, I had no idea what it would be like. I was with a bunch of friends, and I had no choice but to go with them. I didn't want to seem like a child who's afraid of haunted houses and amusement park rides. No, I was tougher than that. I had to be adventurous, just like my friends. Once I entered, I was amazed. It felt like I was in a completely different world. Sure I got scared a lot, but I loved it. It was such a great experience for me. Something I've been afraid of doing my entire life ended up being one of the most memorable moments of my life. This is the exact moment that I knew I needed to step out of my comfort zone more often.

After a while, I noticed how much happier I became. I wasn't the shy, boring kid I used to be. I decided that I have a life to live, and I didn't want to spend it doing the same old things every day. Wake up, eat, play video games, sleep. That was it. Now, sometimes I don't know what my days will consist of.

I've become a much more interesting person. I've been trying different types of food that a lot of people would find disgusting. I've been watching movies and playing video games that have terrible reviews. I have conversations with complete strangers, and I can even talk to girls now! That was something I never thought I'd be good at. I never would have been able to do any of these 4 years ago. Every time I try something new, whether I enjoy it or not, it's an experience. I wanted to stop hearing about people doing stuff and try them out for myself instead. I don't want to grow old and always say "No, I've never done that."

My point is, trying new things can change your life in a lot of good ways, as long as you're responsible of course. I can easily say that I'm happy with who I am now.