Written by: Alice Dartnell, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
It may be a bit of a cliché but let’s be honest, it’s also very true! In the world of entrepreneurship and leadership in particular, the comfort zone is a popular topic. In fact, type in “comfort zone and leadership” into Google, and it will return 28,000,000 searches!
"Great things never came from comfort zones." – Roy T. Bennett
But, what's this fuss about comfort zones anyway, you ask?
We all have a unique love-hate relationship with the comfort zone. Sure, it provides a cozy bubble in a world where routines reign and risks are minimised, but here's the kicker: nothing remarkable ever happens inside this bubble of familiarity. To lead with inspiration or be bold enough to venture into the uncharted waters of entrepreneurship, we must relinquish the comfort zone. We have to try new things, be willing to risk making mistakes, and take ownership of our growth.
In this article, I want to share 7 tips with you on how to do it, because let’s be honest, you don’t really need telling that the magic is outside of your comfort zone. You’ve seen enough of the motivational quotes to know that! The big question mark is “how do I actually do that without having full on panic attacks!”
So before I dive into those (which are all super practical by the way), let me just share with you WHY the brain actually likes to keep you in your comfort zone in the first place. I have to constantly remind my clients of this when they’re procrastinating on venturing into new projects etc (as a coach I specialise in time management and as you can imagine procrastination is a hot topic!)
Unfortunately for us, the brain likes to conserve energy and minimise danger – after all, its sole job is to keep us alive! This natural instinct seeks to maintain a sense of security and stability, and any sniff of stepping out of that even if it is good for us, will freak it out. Hence the brain actively tries to keep us in the comfort zone!
1: Start small
Ok so you want to write a book and that terrifies you – rather than dive headfirst into a full-on novel, how about start out writing a few articles and blogs for others. You don’t run a marathon by running 26 miles on day one! Break the goal that is going to push your comfort zone into smaller, more manageable pieces. Focus on achieving one step at a time, gradually building your confidence and comfort level.
2: Embrace new experiences
Break the comfort zone by consciously introducing new experiences into your daily life, no matter how small. Even if they are not directly related to your goal that requires you to push your comfort zone, the act of stepping out of the comfort bubble will still be training your brain! So actively seek ways to push your comfort zone. Get your morning coffee from a different coffee shop. Try a new dish to what you normally order at lunch. Even sitting in a different chair to what you usually do will shake it up!
3: Embrace learning
Knowledge is Empowering! Fear of the unknown is often what is most paralyzing, so arm yourself with knowledge and information. For example, if you have a fear of public speaking and have been asked to do a talk at work, then what can you learn to start turning the volume down on the fear? Maybe it’s a few tips on how to come across confident. Gaining insights about a situation or experience beforehand can help diminish any apprehension and allow you to approach it with more confidence.
4: Bring in a buddy
Can you share the experience? When facing a challenge and pushing your comfort zone, consider involving someone else, through an organised group, a friend, a coach or colleague. Safety in numbers can provide support, morale and encouragement. I have found this the way forward for me when pushing my comfort zone on things like scuba diving and canyoning when I have a fear of water and heights!
5: Mind your mind
Be mindful of your thoughts and self-talk. Mindset is key to gradually pushing your comfort zone bit by bit! Your perception shapes your reality. So replace negative, fearful thoughts with positive affirmations that encourage growth and resilience. You don’t have to fool yourself either, just affirming that it might be scary but you are going to give it your best is powerful!
6: Celebrate progress
As a coach, this is something I see time and time again… people not celebrating their success! Remind yourself that every experience, whether successful or challenging, contributes positively to your personal growth and pushing your comfort zone. So, celebrate each step forward!
7: Welcome fear as a companion
Acknowledge that fear is a natural emotion, and it is okay to feel scared at times! There is no need to pretend and shut it away! Denial and pretending will make it worse! Rather than trying to eliminate fear entirely, accept it as a companion on your journey. As Susan Jeffers wisely stated in the title of her book, you need to "feel the fear and do it anyway".
Life presents continuous learning curves so seize each opportunity to broaden your knowledge and skills, and of course your comfort zone! Embracing these 7-tips will empower you to break free from the shackles of your comfort zone, opening doors to new possibilities and unparalleled personal growth which is going to enrich all areas of your life and business.
Alice Dartnell, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Alice Dartnell is a time management and energy management coach, trainer, speaker, and author, who is passionate about empowering people to create a life by design, not by default! Known as an expert in time management and energy management, Alice doesn’t teach time management in the traditional sense. Instead, she focuses on the importance of energy management and mindset as the way to improve time management. Alice believes that time management actually isn’t about managing time! Instead, it is about managing you, other people, your tasks and most importantly, your energy! She works with individuals on a 121 basis, as well as through programmes, workshops, and courses. Additionally, she delivers training to org
