Although it’s true that life is full of surprises, it’s normal to want to cling onto familiarity and security. After all, the unknown is daunting; it produces anxiety, and forces us to step outside of our comfort zones. This might manifest itself physically: you begin to sweat; the hairs on your neck stand up, and your hands get clammy. Sometimes, even a simple task – take, for example, public speaking – can send your heart beating wildly out of control. That’s because risk is almost always synonymous with adventure. I use the term “adventure” loosely in this context. The standard textbook definition of the word would probably evoke images of campfires, hiking sticks and manly, bearded men. But you do not need to trek the Himalayas in order to experience the combination of dread and exhilaration that arises whenever you tread unfamiliar waters. The same rush can be replicated by taking one step out of your comfort zone. The same emotions are present when I give a speech to a class of 10 students.
For the most part, public speaking isn’t really considered an “adventure”– but for someone who’s petrified of presentations and cold, hard stares, it’s the biggest adventure of all. In this circumstance, it’s easy to shrink back into your shell to avoid having to face reality. But stepping out of your comfort zone may literally be the best thing you can do for yourself. Here’s why:
- Challenging yourself helps you perform better.
The problem with “comfort zones” is that you often become too comfortable. Soon, without realizing it, you turn into your own worst enemy, holding yourself back from achieving great things. Sometimes, this happens because we fear failure, but truthfully, there is no learning without fumbling. Instead of performing steadily and predictably, challenge yourself to continuously learn, grow and try new things. Don’t let predictability become a habit because habits are hard to break. - Challenging yourself helps you become more creative.
As writer Steven Kotler once said about Einstein, “Creatives fail and the really good ones fail often.” What does he mean by this confounding statement? Well, someone who regularly takes risks is more likely to cultivate an openness to experience, which fosters intellectual curiosity, imagination, emotional interests and drive. These are the key ingredients that feed creativity: the “Ah-ha!” moments, if you will.
- Challenging yourself helps you realize your true potential.
You have to admit it. As much as you hate stepping out of your comfort zone, it’s super rewarding to overcome a personal obstacle. Sometimes, just doing it once is enough to send you to Cloud 9. You instantly become your own biggest hero, and there’s no greater feeling than that.
Convince Yourself To Step Outside Of Your Comfort Zone
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