Moments with Melody – Complacency, Curriculum, Curiosity (and the Cat)

I may have mentioned in previous writings how much I enjoy surfing the internet and learning new things. Fun things, odd things, serious things, useful things, and dumb things. Everything. There is always something that catches my interest as I explore.

That leads me to start my thoughts off today with “complacency.” I understand that there is an absolute comfort in our routines, to sticking to what we know, to avoiding change. However, the world just doesn’t work like that, or it shouldn’t. If you are complacent and living the “status quo” you must be bored to death. I can’t even imagine. Change will happen whether you want it to or not, so be ready for it. Embrace it. I’m not telling you to go out there and do something crazy, or completely against your nature. I’m just asking you to try something different once in a while. Maybe a new restaurant. Perhaps reading a book you wouldn’t have considered previously. Maybe adding one new thing to your weekly routine. Trying a new app. Start small and add something else when that becomes comfortable for you. I want you to grow with the world, not be left behind.

Trying new things leads me to thoughts on “curriculum.” Curriculum is a “have to” item most of the time. You have a course you need to complete; you have continuing education that is required, there’s just something you have to learn or reinforce that may be work or school related. There’s no getting around it. Most of us look at it as a requirement. Sometimes it is, but it doesn’t have to be. Curriculum can also fall into the “Curiosity” category. It does for me. Perhaps it’s because I enjoy learning new things. I also grew up in a previous work environment where the path was “see one – do one – teach one – move on to the next one.” This was good for me because I was always learning something new. I’ve joked with people that I’m never bored – if I’m bored it’s because I am dead. And I’m ALWAYS surprised at people that tell me they are bored. If you are bored, it’s because you chose that state of mind.

Don’t be bored. Be like the curious cat (but be safe!) Explore your world, learn new things, interact with family and friends. Keep growing!

~ contributed by Melody Lowe