As a writer of a certain age, I can attest to the worthiness of today’s exercise.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more comfortable breaking creative ruts. I like my habits and routines, but I also like to try new things, go new places, work in new forms and genres. I’ve made an effort the last few years to follow my nose when I’m interested in a new topic or want to learn. I’ve become a better writer, studied new languages, and taken up painting and drawing again.

Are you living in a creative comfort zone? Today, ask yourself if there are any areas of growth that you’re not pursuing because it would make you uncomfortable or upset your routines. If you don’t have a creative solution, look for something in your day-to-day life that you’d like to try or change and take action on it.