This article follows “Say yes to life: you never know where it might take you” and “Say yes to life, part 2: the first step“.
There is something wonderfully reassuring about our comfort zones. They are familiar, predictable and safe.
But here’s the thing: comfort zones are great places to visit. Just don’t spend your whole life living there, because nothing new grows there.
The sweet spot between comfort and challenge
In our leadership workshops, we often explore the space between comfort and challenge.
Too much comfort and we risk becoming complacent. Too much challenge and we can feel overwhelmed. Somewhere in between lies the space where real growth happens, where we stretch ourselves, experiment, make mistakes and discover what we are truly capable of.
It doesn’t always take a giant leap
Stepping outside your comfort zone can be small and still significant:
- Speaking up when you would rather stay quiet.
- Asking for feedback you might not want to hear.
- Challenging an established way of thinking.
- Having the conversation you have been putting off.
Act boldly, grow bravely
One of our Live Learning values is Act Boldly. Grow Bravely. I love the order of those words, because courage doesn’t always come before action.
Sometimes we have to act boldly to grow bravely. Confidence isn’t a prerequisite for action. More often, it is the result of it.
So perhaps the question isn’t whether you are ready. It’s whether you are willing to get a little uncomfortable.
A recent reminder
Recently, I took a break to recharge the batteries and decided to dive again after a 10 year break, with some anxiety building up beforehand. I almost said no. 😉
I’m glad I didn’t.
So, when was the last time you stepped outside your comfort zone, and what did you discover?
Act boldly. Grow bravely.
Live Learning, rethinking the way we learn!
