Human nature drives us to seek security and familiarity. Think back to the first time you
tried something new—a new garment, a new car, or even entering a new relationship. Initially, it can feel uncomfortable as we navigate uncharted territory. There is a learning curve that comes with exploring the unknown, and it becomes more pronounced as we grow older and start to worry about how others perceive us.
Unlike a new car or a new piece of clothing that maintains its shape and doesn't challenge us, new experiences and relationships require adaptation and learning. Specially Forming a connection with someone, both parties play a role, both parties learn how to adapt, how to become familiar with each other, and how to establish a sense of safety.
Remember when I first started building my business and sharing content on social media—it was a wild ride of emotions. It took me months to gather the confidence to put my work out there for the world to see. The process was a bit paradoxical, I must admit. I spent hours upon hours preparing and rehearsing my content. And even when I finally filmed it, there was this lingering hesitation to hit that share button. It's crazy how we can be our own the harshest critics, isn't it?
Why Do We Create Comfort Zones?
Our comfort zones can be likened to a cocoon that wraps us in familiar routines and shields us from the unknown. While this may provide temporary solace, it also keeps us from spreading our wings and venturing into uncharted territory.
Consider the journey of going to school every day. The familiar faces, the predictable routines—they create a sense of security and ease. It's a place where we know what to expect. Comfort zones serve a purpose by providing stability and a sense of control.
However, we can also be attached to them, resist change and miss out on the opportunities for growth that lie just beyond our comfort's reach.
What’s behind the Comfort Zone
Stepping outside our comfort zones is like a secret door to uncovering our true selves. It's a chance to throw off the masks we've been wearing and dive headfirst into self-exploration.
When we were young, we soaked up the expectations and norms imposed on us by society and our loved ones, played by the rules without questioning who we really are deep down.
As we confront our fears and embrace new challenges, we cultivate resilience and adaptability. It strengthens us, building confidence in our abilities to overcome even greater.
How you can get comfortable being uncomfortable?
Remember when we try to learn playing tennis or acquiring a new language, everything starts with feeling uncomfortable. The key lies in giving ourselves time to adjust and grow accustomed to the new experience.
Tips to help you get comfortable being uncomfortable:
1. Take small baby steps, gradually increase the level of difficulty as you become more accustomed. It allows you to build confidence and adapt to new situations.
2. Embrace a growth mindset, views discomfort as an opportunity for growth and learning. Recognize that failures and setbacks are valuable lessons that contribute to your personal development.
3. Practice mindfulness. Stay present in the moment and observe your thoughts and emotions. It can help you manage anxiety and fear more effectively, acknowledge your feeling what you’re going through.
4. Find your tribe, your people, your cheerleaders—the ones who lift you up and believe in your ability to grow and change. Surrounding yourself with individuals who encourage and motivate you to push your boundaries is crucial when stepping outside your comfort zone. These are the people who see your potential, even when you might doubt yourself.
Each time we venture outside our comfort zones, we expand our horizons and unlock a new
version of ourselves—one that is more resilient, courageous, and ready to take on the world.
Keep pushing, keep learning, and keep growing.
The best is yet to come.