Image from sarahfelicity

I don’t particularly like change. I had the same roommate for three years in college and the same profile picture for close to a year on Facebook.  I have four pairs of heels from the same brand and when one particular sundress was on sale, I bought it in three colors.

I have had the same hairdryer for ten years — that is, I had my hairdryer until last week when I smelled smoke. Lesson learned: replace your small appliances when they’re over the hill and change the batteries in your smoke detector twice a year just in case.

Here are some other things you shouldn’t be afraid to change.

Your workout

It’s easy to get in a rut – go to the gym, get on the same elliptical (I once nearly had a panic attack when they rearranged the equipment), run at the same intensity for the same amount of time, and go home.  You’ll get better results and be more likely to stick to it if you add some variety.  Try a new class, a standby like spinning or something trendy like Zumba or hot yoga.  Take some days off from cardio and give strength training a try.  Netflix has several Pilates and yoga workouts available on instant and just about anything you could want is available in the mail.

Your hair

I chopped off most of my hair two years ago.  Now I’m thinking I might grow it out again for a little while.  I’ve done the Pob and the long layers and the I-don’t-care-because-it’s-in-a-ponytail years. I’m a brunette, but sometimes, usually while watching Desperate Housewives, I have a strong urge to go red.  I think I will one of these days — with a box of dark brown hair dye in reserve.  It never hurts to have a Plan B.

Your mind

This is a more general one. Listen to your intuition. It’s much better to break up after a few months than after you’re wearing the ring.  On a smaller scale, if you don’t love the shoes, don’t keep them — Zappos has free shipping and free returns.  Keep receipts.

Your opinion

I’m tired of people going crazy when they hear that a politician has changed their stance on an issue.  Actually, I’m just tired of people being afraid to change their opinion.  I know, there are some things that people will always believe, but in general, if you change your mind, good for you.  It’s evidence that you’re learning, thinking, and growing.

Your life

I’ve been in DC for two years, and now I’m moving up to Connecticut.  I recently left a job and am looking for a new one at a less than opportune time, but really, is there ever a good time to make big changes?  Being cautious and sticking to what you know may feel safe, but if you’re not taking a few risks, chances are you’re not getting any closer to the life you want.