When is the last time you pushed yourself out of your comfort zone? I wanted to write about this today because I recently had a call with a coaching client about how she felt stuck in a rut. Her days were seemingly the same, her job was steady, she had lovely relationships, and everything was fine. 

 

Except she was feeling stagnant. 

 

So what did we do? Well, a few things. Amongst them, we made a list of things she was curious about but too scared to try. For the sake of privacy, I'll spare you the personal details, but I do want to share this. 

 

The reason she was scared to do the things she was curious about was that she didn't want to fail. So instead of trying new things, she allowed herself to stay in the comfort of what she knew. Was she growing? Possibly. Yet, as I discussed with her, she was leaving unrealized potential on the table. And she wouldn't know that without trying. 

 

I think we can all relate to this on some level. 

 

Maybe you're actually meant to be a public speaker and just need to get over the fear of speaking to a large audience. Maybe you're a great writer but are scared that your creative dreams are not a realistic way to make a living. Maybe you're curious about applying for a job or a grant or a school, or something, but are afraid you won't get it. Maybe, maybe, maybe. 

 

 

I'm not saying you need to do anything drastic, like quit your job or move to a different country. But I am suggesting that you get comfortable with the uncomfortable. What's something you can do today that will push you toward your life goals? It should feel slightly scary. You should feel slightly nervous. You should feel excited. 

 

By stepping out of your comfort zone, you open yourself up to new experiences, new opportunities, and new skills. And the more you do it, the more confident you become in yourself and your abilities. 

 

Over time, you'll realize that pushing yourself to grow out of your comfort zone was probably worth it.