If you always do what is easy and choose the path of least resistance, you never step outside your comfort zone. Great things don’t come from comfort zones
Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart
The above quote by Roy T. Bennett is so true. People who can push themselves out of their comfort zones are bound to achieve something great in the long run. However, why do you think that is the case? To understand this, we first need to know what our comfort zone exactly is.
A Comfort zone is that zone where one feels secure and satisfied. If someone is doing the same work over and over without learning any new skill and he or she still feels satisfied, we can say that the person is in his or her comfort zone. So, what’s wrong with staying in your comfort zone when you are satisfied with it? I think there is nothing wrong with it. However, what about an individual who wants to achieve something but is skeptical or fearful about the steps he or she needs to follow? That person is not probably satisfied with the routine work and wants to achieve something more. So, what stops individuals to get out of their comfort zones?
The reasons could be many and some of them would be valid as well. Let us understand those and see how to overcome them.
1. Obstacles
People fear facing obstacles when they think of going beyond their comfort zone. That is why they do not want to take that extra step. Let me give an example here. A person knows that he is overweight and he needs to exercise regularly to get back to his ideal weight. He did exercise before but could not continue for long as he suffered a back injury. The doctor advised him to rest for few days and since he got scared, he never attempted to continue with his exercise. So, what he needs to understand is that this is just an obstacle and he should learn instead what caused the back injury. If he could take proper steps to rectify that, the chances of this similar injury happening again will be reduced significantly.
2. Lack of time
Let’s say you are passionate about earning passive income through your hobby but you are unable to spend time because of several reasons. Well, who does not face any issue with time management? Every person in this world gets 24 hours every day. Hence, what you should do is to learn how to manage time without affecting your other important work and still be able to achieve your end goal.
3. Responsibilities
Sometimes because of several responsibilities such as your family or any other obligations, you compromise on your personal goals and you limit yourself to go out of your comfort zone. You may still have the wish to pursue your dream but those responsibilities are hindering you. That is quite understandable but see if there is still a way to manage your responsibilities in a manner that those do not affect your long-term goals. You may not want to end up in a position later that you regret your decision of not preparing for your goal. Hence, always try to find a balance.
4. Financial issues
Some people want to start their own startup. They are likely working in a regular office job from 9 am to 6 pm. However, they are not satisfied with their lives. They want to do something on their own and are ready to push themselves out of their comfort zones. But since they do not have financial stability, they just stop there instead of searching for ways to overcome the problem. I agree the issue may not be resolved soon but still try to find ways of collecting the funds you need to start something of your own. You can start some part-time jobs or find a way to earn money online. Just don’t give up. It may take some time but if you have the will, you will resolve your financial issues soon and would be ready to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
5. Motivation
Lack of motivation is one of the main factors that people are not willing to push themselves out of their comfort zones. A person wants to lose weight but for losing weight, he needs to follow a balanced diet and regular exercise. Initially, the person may remain motivated during his initial fitness days but eventually, motivation fades away when he sees no results out of his hard work. Remember that losing weight takes time. You can’t expect to lose 5 kilograms in 2 weeks. Just believe in the process you are following. Think of the result. That will surely give you the boost you need to continue with your fitness regime. Always stay motivated. A self-motivated person can easily go beyond his comfort zone to achieve his goal.
Related : How to remain motivated all the time?
Conclusion
All the famous persons in the world pushed themselves out of their comfort zones at some point in their lives. Jeff Bezos left his high-paying job at Wall Street to start Amazon from his garage and he is currently the wealthiest man on the planet. Roger Federer pushed himself to learn continuously and he went on to win 20 Grand slams in Tennis.
Remember that great things never happen inside your comfort zone. Stepping out of your comfort zone requires a lot of will and determination and people who can put that additional effort are bound to achieve their goals.
Are you currently outside of your comfort zone and learning some new skills? Do share in the comments below.
