30 - The Danger of Staying in Your Comfort Zone

Today, I want to talk about something we all know but often struggle to implement - stepping out of our comfort zone. It’s a topic close to my heart, especially as this year I have set myself some big personal and professional objectives.

Think about the times when you've felt most alive and driven. Chances are, those moments happened not in the safety of your established routine, but when you took a leap, tried something new, and embraced the unknown. Maybe it was when you decided to enrol on a new course, submit your application for a new job, or like me hosted some live webinars.

Yes, in the moment you may have been full of nerves, feeling imposter syndrome, and questioning why you started it in the first place but when you came through it, I am sure it felt incredible. I know that this is true for me, so wanted to explore it further and share with you.

A perfect example is where each month I host a Confident Communication Masterclass in my corporate role. It is a friendly lunch and learn opportunity for people to practice their public speaking in a safe environment. We have a range of people from those wanting to hone their existing skills, to those who have never done it before and are really nervous!

When I started public speaking, I too was nervous but knew that to improve I needed to step out of my comfort zone. The best bit? When some of the most nervous people come back to me over the days following a CCM session saying they were buzzing with energy and pride in the hours after they had taken to the stage.  

Why We Love Our Comfort Zone

Let's face it, our comfort zone is like a cosy blanket. It is the routine and environment where we feel familiar and secure. However, staying there too long can hinder your personal and professional growth. I have been there, when I was in a job that no longer challenged my abilities, I started to disconnect. I didn’t feel engaged and found it difficult to get motivated to do anything. Maybe you have felt this too or know people around you that have?

The Benefits of Stepping Out

1. Increased Innovation and Creativity: When you expose yourself to new challenges, you begin to think outside the box. I remember when I launched my blog it was daunting, but it sparked ideas I never knew I had! I now love sharing ideas about how you can find purpose and fulfilment in your career, and build a life you love.
2. Building Resilience: Facing unfamiliar situations head-on builds your resilience. You learn to adapt, which is crucial in today’s ever-evolving work environment. Reflecting back, when I speak in a public forum I may still carry some nerves (because I care) but I have practiced enough to know that I am good at it, and that nothing sinister is going to happen if I make a mistake.
3. Discovering New Opportunities: The most exciting opportunities often lie just outside our comfort zone. I remember a few years back when I was considering attending property entrepreneur training. Initially, I was hesitant, it cost a lot, I was going alone, I knew no one or indeed anything about property, I was nervous! But I decided to commit, reminding myself of the benefits.

At the training, not only did I meet a wide range of inspiring individuals, learn all about strategies, get clear on what I wanted and how I was going to achieve it, but I made some amazing friends along the way.  I also had to present on a stage in front of nearly 100 people (and won an award for my presentation, this weeks blog photo)! It taught me the value of embracing discomfort to uncover opportunities I wouldn’t have found otherwise.

Taking the First Step

It doesn't have to be a giant leap. Start small by trying something new that you have felt curious about. Maybe it is taking on a new course, attending networking events relating to your job, or volunteering for an organisation that means something to you. The key is to do something that challenges you but doesn’t overwhelm you.

Remember, each step you take towards the unfamiliar is a victory. It's about exploring what’s possible and unlocking your potential. You will learn and grow, and even if it doesn’t go to plan, you will learn something there too.

Always with love,
Elsa x