8 years ago, I was scared to speak in public.

8 years ago, I was scared to speak in public. Today, I’m planning my first stand-up set.

At the beginning of each new year, I reflect on the goals I’ve achieved and those I didn’t reach.

For years, I prided myself on setting new, ambitious goals and knocking them out. But lately, I’ve noticed my list hasn’t changed much. I’ve been working on similar things year after year.

That observation made me wonder: is it time for a new challenge?

One skill that changed my life was public speaking. Years ago, I joined Toastmasters. What was once terrifying became second nature. Now, I regularly speak on webinars, podcasts, and at events.

That experience reminded me how rewarding it is to tackle something that scares me.

Recently, comedy has been on my mind. I don’t consider myself naturally funny—most people know me as logical and data-driven.

But I enjoy live comedy.

After seeing Kevin Hart and Sebastian Maniscalco perform recently, I thought, “Why not give this a try?”

I’ve started reading The New Comedy Bible by Judy Carter, a guide by a professional comedian and coach. One of the book’s first tips? Book an open mic night—just three to five minutes on stage.

The idea both terrifies and excites me.

While I haven’t booked the gig yet, I’ve decided to do it. Not because I dream of Netflix specials or comedy tours but because it will push me out of my comfort zone.

It will give me a new challenge, improve my writing, and add a new dimension to my personal and professional life.

So here I am, putting it on the record: I will try stand-up.

I want to challenge you, too—find something scary or out of reach and give it a shot. You might surprise yourself.

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.