Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

It is cold and windy, all you want to do is stay indoors and keep warm. But you don’t, you put on a warm coat, gloves and scarf then step outside. Initially, the chill hits you; you shiver as you feel goosebumps prickle your skin.  You start walking and pull your scarf tighter around you. You notice the warmth under your coat and cold air on your face.  Something changes. It begins to feel invigorating, and as you keep walking, you realise you do not feel as cold.  This is an example of you physically stepping out of your comfort zone. 

The same occurs when you step out of your mental comfort zone.  It is hard at first, but as you acclimatise to this new way of being, it begins to feel comfortable.

How can you begin stepping out of your comfort zone?

1. Challenge yourself and approach a familiar task differently. For example, change your morning routine or take a different mode of transport to work.

2. Ask family and friends what activities they have been doing. Do their ideas spark some interest for you?

3. Say ‘yes’ to something that makes you uncomfortable.  For example, if you are asked to speak at a conference – say yes! What a great opportunity and reminder that people value your opinion and area of expertise.

4. Say goodbye to your past – most of us store harmful and unnecessary emotions and experiences which can hinder us from wanting to try something new.

Stepping out of your comfort zone is uncomfortable. Making some small adjustments, changing your mindset and embracing the challenge will enable you to reap the benefits.

So, what are you going to do that takes you out of your comfort zone?