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As I mentioned last week in “Break the Habit, ” I challenged myself to change my routine. Part of my routine involves going to the gym every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday morning. I love spinning class, but it’s not the most social activity. I get to the gym just in time to change into my gear and get on the bike. And, when the class is over,  I immediately change and head out. I leave NO time for interaction.

This week I went to the gym a half hour early and made a point to talk to people. I spoke to one guy in my Saturday spinning class about politics and the economy. Easy, hot topic that everyone is talking about. On Tuesday, I easied the concerns of two spinning newbies who were intimidated by the skill level required. What they didn’t know is that their first class happened to be with the most challenging teacher and that they should try some other classes before giving up!

In addition to changing my exercise routine, I also signed up for a speaker event at my local museum featuring fashion designer Rami Kashou who was on the second season of Project Runway. I typically would ask friends to join me, but I decided to go alone.

I arrived early to mingle and see some of the exhibits at the Phillips Collection. It’s one of my favorite museums because it is small and intimate. They also have After 5 events that provide a nice mix of music and speakers with a small reception. In my mingling, I met a woman from Williamsburg with her younger daughter who works at the museum. While waiting for the event to begin, a video was running of Rami’s work. We spoke openly about what we liked and disliked. We also talked about our careers. She was a textile major, but then married and had a family. I mentioned that I was a designer and talked about SingleTease. She was in her 50′s and married in her early 20′s. She found it intriquing and tried to understand the challenges of meeting single men when she was single and now that she has a grown daughter. It was an interesting conversation!

Combining my love for art and fashion made for fun evening. Hearing Rami speak of his passion and discipline to succeed wa truly inspiring!

Stepping beyond my routine was good. I met some interesting people and learned some things about myself. I also learned how much I was missing! So, I challenge you go beyond your routine this week. I would love to hear what you did!