The Aliveness of Novelty
There’s an undeniable energy that comes from stepping into something new. Novelty wakes us up—it sparks excitement, wonder, and a sense of expansion. Arthur Brooks calls this neophilia—the love of new experiences—and it’s deeply tied to what makes life feel rich and fulfilling. When we expose ourselves to fresh experiences, ideas, and challenges, we stay engaged, resilient, and adaptable. Newness stretches us, keeps us from stagnating, and makes life feel more vibrant and full.
This is the essence of Plex. Plexing isn’t frivolous play—it’s about expansion, approached in a playful way. It’s about stretching just beyond what’s familiar, whether in small ways—trying a new food, taking a different route—or in bigger ways, like learning a new skill or traveling somewhere unfamiliar. Every Plex adds to our sense of aliveness, opening us to new possibilities, helping us break through limitations, and seeing the world in fresh, exciting ways.
Curiosity: The Entry Point
If novelty is the fuel, curiosity is the spark. Curiosity is what opens the door to newness. It moves us from hesitation to action, from sameness to possibility. Most of the time, curiosity leads to growth, adventure, and fresh perspectives.
Unlike pressure or obligation, curiosity doesn’t force—it invites. It nudges us to explore, to wonder, to lean into the unknown just enough to discover something new. It also gives us permission to be beginners—to acknowledge that we don’t have to get it perfect, that simply stepping in is enough.
Curiosity also keeps us open. It prevents us from shutting down opportunities out of fear or habit. When we stay curious, we stay receptive—to new ideas, different perspectives, and unexpected experiences. And the more we follow curiosity, the more natural it becomes to embrace the unfamiliar and reap the benefits of trying something new.
Our comfort zones may feel familiar and safe, but the magic of life happens outside of that comfort. We grow through new experiences, connections, and resources. Even if we don’t particularly enjoy the activity or make new connections, we’ve still benefited from the stretch.
The Question That Changes Everything
So often, when offered an opportunity for something new, we too quickly respond with “no.” Maybe it’s from fear of the unknown or a desire to stay comfortable, or maybe we think, “I can’t possibly do that.” Before we jump to that “no,” it’s worth taking a moment to ask ourselves: “Will I choose curiosity or comfort?”
The power of this simple question lies in its ability to pause our automatic response and create space for reflection. It helps us recognize whether we’re resisting the opportunity out of fear or habit, or if it’s genuinely not the right time. This question becomes a powerful guide, nudging us toward experiences that might surprise us and help us break through hesitation and routine. By asking this question, we open ourselves to growth and exploration, giving us the chance to reconsider, stretch our boundaries, and embrace new opportunities we might have otherwise missed.
But sometimes, for some of us, stability is the wiser choice. Of course, it depends on the novelty being contemplated and the context. Maybe it’s too much, too dangerous, or just the wrong timing, or we’ve been stretching too much. In those cases, choosing comfort can be the reset we need. The key is being intentional—knowing when curiosity will serve us and when stability is what we truly need.
But if we’re unsure? Choose curiosity. Because curiosity is what expands our world.
