“The strongest oak of the forest is not the one that is protected from the storm and hidden from the sun. It’s the one that stands in the open where it is compelled to struggle for existence against the winds and rains and the scorching sun.”
-Napoleon Hill

As you read through these posts, I want you to keep an open mind and also start to pay attention to your own comfort zone and when it limits you. Become aware and then decide when it’s time to step out of the box and embrace what’s possible.

What’s Your Comfort Zone?

Let’s start by defining what the comfort zone is so we’re on the same page as we discuss this abstract concept in a little more detail.

The comfort zone is a place or situation where we feel safe. It doesn’t cause us stress or anxiety to do what we’re doing. In other words, it’s where we live without getting uncomfortable, stretching, or growing pains. It’s a place where we feel confident and we know just about all there is to know about it. We in full control or at least we feel that way.

The first step towards stepping out of our comfort zone is realizing it’s there and figuring out what the boundaries of our particular zone are.

Going forward, I would like you to start to pay attention to what you do because:

• That’s how I’ve always done it.
• It’s comfortable and what I’m used to.
• It’s how it’s done.

Those are good indications that you’re working within your comfort zone.

Just as important are the things you don’t do or decline. Ask yourself why you’re saying no to a person or opportunity. Is it because it’s not a good fit, or is it because it makes you uncomfortable or you are scared of it?

Start paying attention to your comfort zone and define it for yourself.  Share your ideas in the comments section below.

Fran Watson

 

 

P.S.  If you didn’t download your workbook yet, click here Confidence Outside Your Comfort Zone Journal