“Habit is the great deadener.” – Irish play-right Samuel Beckett’s character
If habit is the great deadener, would it make comfort zone the grave? There is nothing wrong with wanting to be comfortable because that’s what most of us aim for in life. However, if that comfort zone becomes a dead weight holding you back to better things in life, it’s time to step out. Here are 3 ways to step out of your comfort zone.
1. It’s Not Scary, It’s Exciting
Never underestimate the power of the mind. What you believe in life will eventually become a reality. Where the mind goes, the body goes also. So, check your belief system when it comes to making changes in life. Instead of thinking ‘scary’ when you want to try new things, think ‘exciting’ instead. Excitement gives you the same nervous energy but with positive connotations. This way, you will view changes as something positive and exciting instead of something you fear and need to avoid. Embrace the excitement!
2. Start Small
Take baby steps if you are truly rooted in your comfort zone. Embracing change is similar to building up a muscle group. You need to work at it and build the capacity so start with small changes that you can make it your daily life. You can start with picking something new from the menu, learning a new skill without expecting to excel in, or explore a fashion style you never tried on. These little practices will build your capacity for change. When you realized some new choices could bring you much joy, you are ready then to embrace more significant changes such as moving to a new city or taking up a new career.
3. Do Your Research
It’s great that you want to make a change but do not make a big decision without doing the proper research. You don’t change your career path without proper financial planning and research on your new role. Research benefits you in three ways:
- It helps to eliminate fear because as you know more about the subject, you will tend to be more confident about the change.
- It can help you realize the change is not the right choice for you. That will save you a lot of heartache at the end. So don’t rush into a decision and do your research thoroughly.
- It can give you an alternative result that you never knew existed. As you find out more, don’t be surprise you come across something else that’s perfect for you. Be flexible enough to realize what you want in the first place might not be the best choice for you.
Here’s a toast to you making a change, trying out new things, and embracing the excitement of things to come!
