My short-lived aspiration to play trumpet didn't make it out of secondary school. Mostly because – as my long-suffering parents can attest to having endured me practicing at home – I was pretty awful. My ability to tap out a tune on the keyboard also doesn't extend beyond Twinkle Twinkle. Although if you ask my one-year-old nephew, that's all you need anyway. And as Team What's On can affirm after our karaoke night a few months ago, there's no chance I'll be securing a record deal anytime soon.
I'm not very sporty either. My lack of hand-eye co-ordination, displeasure at being cold, and limited stamina meant I was always picked last for team sports at school. I go to the gym because I have to, not because I want to. And as much as I'd like to be as enthusiastic as my colleague Miles has become about running, I'm afraid this probably isn't going to be the year I start half-marathons (2025 will be my year, maybe).
But one thing I will say, is I'm willing to give anything a go – despite how far it might send me out of my comfort zone. I've wet-suitted up to swim with sharks, strapped myself into a harness and ziplined off a building in Dubai Marina, and rock climbed across mountains, despite having a fear of heights. And whether you're learning a new skill or getting a new thrill, this issue we're inviting you to step outside of your comfort zone, too. From p17, we're bringing you the skill-enhancing, thrill-inducing experiences you won't want to miss from across the country. Buckle up.
Enjoy the issue,
Alice Holtham Group Editor | 
