There are 88 keys on the piano. Eighty-eight. Oftentimes, beginner piano students get too comfortable playing in one or two positions on the piano, using only 10-15 keys. Later, they find it difficult to move out of these comfortable positions, learn new notes, and more fully explore the range of sounds that the piano has to offer. They get stuck.
What a great analogy to the comfort zones in life! We get comfortable doing what we are used to doing, and can be hesitant to try something new, move outside our usual routines, and explore the full range of experiences that life has to offer.
I’ve been fortunate to have a number of circumstances push me outside my comfort zone…WAY outside my comfort zone. I’ve learned to regroup, adapt, and flourish in some interesting situations. Now, I try to step outside my comfort zone intentionally, at times anxiously, but with enough determination to see me through the discomfort to a greater purpose.
We only have 10 fingers. Ten fingers, but eighty-eight keys. Music is truly a reflection of life experiences.
Which notes will you play today?