Staying in your comfort zone is nice and easy. It feels safe and predictable. Being in your comfort zone is something we all tend to lean towards, it’s much easier to stay where you feel comfortable than to step out into the unknown. Staying in your comfort zone could mean not travelling or trying new things. Moving away from our comfort zone can be stressful.
If you push yourself too hard, too quickly, it can backfire and you can feel panicky, overwhelmed by anxiety or stress. But stepping just outside your comfort zone into the ‘confidence building’ zone can be extremely good for you. Extend your comfort zone and you extend your confidence; you extend your beliefs about what you’re capable of in a wide range of situations.
Identify your comfort zones
The first step to moving outside of your comfort zone is by defining what is comfortable and easy for you. Think of all the things you do on a regular basis, your daily routine and the things you do with ease.
Spot opportunities to move outside your comfort zone
A trip somewhere new, meeting someone new. Write a list of at least five things that would stretch you a little and be slightly new for you. It’s okay to feel slightly uneasy out of your comfort zone – use this as evidence that you are growing and expanding your comfort zone. It’s a good thing! Push yourself a little. Run 25 minutes instead of 20 minutes, try a new shop or say hello to a stranger. Watch a different TV programme or listen to a different radio station – expand your horizons. Learn something new every day – that’s something I aspire to do.
Trust yourself, be more decisive
Don’t overthink it and analyse it to death – just do it. Allow yourself to do something on impulse. Being too cautious can leave you feeling afraid of life. Show yourself that sometimes taking a chance is okay, even fun. Snap decisions instil a feeling of self trust. Be more spontaneous.
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone – Neale Donald Walsh.
The only way to feel more confident and braver in life is to keep doing things that push you out of your comfort zone. Do some reality testing instead of believing those fearful thoughts that keep you in your comfort zone. Get out there and see what happens. Our scary thoughts and fears are often far worse than reality.
Mandy X
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
