You're not a fish

When I'm encouraging clients to take steps towards getting back out into the world by engaging in new activities I often hear the phrase, "I felt like a fish out of water!"
In my dictionary of phrases and fables the definition of that phrase reads,

"A person who is in an unusual or unwelcome environment and who thus feels ill at ease or awkward.  A fish out of water cannot swim."

I've always thought it was a weird expression for us to use when we feel uncomfortable in a new environment - not only can a fish not swim out of water, but kept out of it a fish will definitely die!
It's one thing to feel uneasy in a new situation, and another when you realise that for you, if you persevere with it and don't let the initial uneasiness put you off, chances are the new interest or hobby will give you a tremendous energy and zest for life - not deplete you of it.

So remember, taking steps towards making your life more interesting and fulfilling may feel strange at first, but you're not a fish - so what are you waiting for?

"To change ones life: Start immediately. Do it flamboyantly." - William James
"If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another one." - Dolly Parton