You’ll soon come to realize that I post more than just “nutrition stuff” on my blog. While I recognize the value of a good diet, there is a lot more to the idea of wholesome health. This idea embodies spiritual, mental, emotional, social, and physical health.
My husband and I love reading and listening to personal growth books and podcasts. We have grown so much as individuals and as a couple in the last couple of years by doing so. One common theme that I have found between all of these books and podcasts is that they all tell me to do and experience things that are out of my comfort zone.
Why?
Because that is where growth happens. You grow when you put yourself outside the limits of your comfort zone. It’s a good thing to challenge ourselves – and we’ll become stronger because of it.
“A mind that is stretched by new experiences can never go back to its old dimensions.”
Oliver wendell holmes, jr.
Imagine sitting on your couch or laying in your bed doing nothing all day long, everyday for even a month. Sure you might be comfortable, but are you any further ahead than you were last month? No. Time is valuable, make good use of it! Comfort only gives us one thing: comfort.
Humor me for a second and let’s think about killing a spider, just to give you an example of how my mind works. I have a definitive dislike for killing spiders in my house. I always have this feeling that I am going to miss, rendering them another chance at life. However, I will say that in my 20 some years of existence, I gain more and more confidence with every spider I kill. Even though seeing a spider is uncomfortable, I know I have succeeded in the task before and that gives me the confidence I need to accomplish it once more. It may seem trivial, but seriously… just kill it!
You can carry over this mentality into any area of your life; travel, public speaking, exercise, you name it. It may not get easier, but you get stronger. You experience growth and confidence with every experience.
So take risks, say yes, and get uncomfortable. You’ll thank me later.
Heidi says
Just do it! You’re right- not much gets done just being comfortable. I like to be comfortable but it my comfort, I do not grow (well, my waistline does!) and neither does my confidence. Thanks for the motivation, Anna!