“Experience is the name every one gives to their mistakes.” –Oscar WildeAs I prepare for my first international trip to Thailand I begin to reflect on what an amazing year I’ve had. The friends I have made and the experiences I’ve gone through have continually shaped my values, beliefs, and perspective. I know that not everyone has the same mindset as me, but I continue to advocate “experiencing” life. Let’s talk.I don’t want to come off as preachy or telling people how to live their life, that is not my intention. I can say that I have become a more open and understanding person as well as creating more meaningful relationships with the people in my life by doing things I would have never said yes to five years ago. Your comfort zone and standard way of doing things is great! In routine there is comfort and security, but minimal growth.It goes back to something I am passionate about, creating human bonds. The idea is that as we push our boundaries seeking unique opportunities and overwhelming limits we find deep meaningful connections and growth. The same phenomenon occurs when we experience life. When we test our limits and try new things, both in our work and  personal lives, we see growth. Learning a new skill at work, trying a new hike in the mountains, taking on a difficult project, or even learning how to play an instrument, all of these things play a part in growing our perspective and knowledge.I think therefore I am. Your perception of the world is shaped by your belief sets, values, environment, and experience. So why limit yourself to your everyday routine? Get out and experience life! Start with something small if you are uncomfortable, but the key is to start! The world is waiting for you. I look forward to blogging about my time in Thailand over the next 10 days and hope that it can help shape your decision to do something spontaneous or new in the coming weeks.“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift. That is why they call it the present” Now I know that the old turtle in Kung Fu Panda said this, but it really holds true for me in my life. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, which is why you need to say yes to life today. Go out and experience it, because do you really want to look back in 20 years and say you wish you would have…?On purpose,Matt