Have you ever felt the urge to try something new but hesitated, thinking it might be too challenging or uncomfortable? You’re not alone. This comfort zone of ours is a familiar, safe space where we feel in control and where nothing can ever threaten us. However, while it’s a cosy place to be, it’s also where you become stagnant. Stepping outside this comfy zone can help you find new opportunities and ways to develop. And what is more, you get to know yourself at a deeper level.

Staying within your comfort zone can be detrimental in the long run, since there will be no room for you to grow; When you stick to what you know, you miss out on learning new skills and gaining new experiences. What is more, you might miss out on opportunities, since great opportunities often lie beyond the borders of your comfort zone. And lastly, over time, not challenging yourself can lead to a sense of stagnation and dissatisfaction.

What are the benefits of stepping outside your comfort zone?

First and foremost you will start to grow as a person. Facing new challenges help you build not only resilience, but confidence within yourself. Furthermore, it will enhance your creativity; New experiences stimulate your brain and spark your creativity, and this can lead to innovative ideas and solutions. When you take a step outside your comfort zone it will broaden your perspectives, as experiencing different situations and challenges expands not only your worldview, but forming you into a more open-minded and empathetic human.

Below you’ll find some real-life examples of stepping outside your comfort zone.

• Learning a New Skill; It can be daunting at first, but learning a new skill enriches your life and expands your capabilities. Personally I started learning ballet 6 months ago. I’m a complete beginner, however, I already notice small improvements, and not only in my ballet technique, but in my overall confidence in life. I’m pretty sure that learning a new skill boosts our confidence as well as mood.
• Traveling Solo; Traveling alone to a new place can be intimidating, yet it fosters independence, self-reliance, and a deep sense of accomplishment. Two years ago I travelled to Venice by myself (although I met up with a new friend when I was there). I truly gained a lot of new insights and experiences, and would do it all over again.
• Say YES to new things; Learn to say yes more often, especially when you feel deep down in your heart that a yes is the right decision. Don’t let the fear of failure or not knowing what might happen keep you from trying new things – just go for it, stay curious and see where it might take you! At least you will learn something new.

With this being said, stepping outside your comfort zone is not about being reckless; it’s about embracing growth and pushing yourself to do new things, hence learning more about yourself. Each step you take into the unknown is a step toward becoming a more confident version of yourself. So, the next time you feel the pull to stay within your safe space, remember: growth happens when you challenge yourself.

Allow yourself to feel discomfort for a while, and watch yourself transform.

I stepped outside my comfort zone when I decided to write for 7 consecutive days, since this is my 7th post in a row. I haven’t been writing consistently since March, and I felt I needed a little boost and challenge. And I’ve come to realise that action leads to motivation, and not the other way around. Try it out for yourself! Is there something yo have been postponing lately, waiting for the motivation to sneak up on you? This is your sign to not wait any longer, but to take action.

❤

//Linda