Burst the Bubble and Get Out of The Comfort Zone

The comfort zone is somewhat like a bubble. It feels as if we are safe and protected here, yet it keeps us trapped and confined. Many people are hesitant to take the steps towards getting comfortable outside of the comfort zone because we know what to expect on the inside. We may not even be that comfortable in the zone but at least it’s safe. After all, what if we dare to pop the bubble and things are worse on the outside?

Many of us seem to be reasonably comfortable with the way our lives are going. We have a job, food on the table, the mortgage is paid, and all our basic needs are being met. We may have worked hard to get to this place so it seems like we are on the right track. We live in a world where we strive for comfort, so it is no surprise that most people live within their comfort zones and are just cruising down the road on autopilot. Some would say this is one form of living, but is it really living or is this simply existing?

The comfort zone can be a very dangerous place. When in this zone we stop growing, stretching, and reaching for greater things. If we are not growing, we are dying. We are either creating or disintegrating. Remaining in this comfortable place keeps us stagnant and holds us back from experiencing more of life and achieving great things.

So, what keeps us from reaching out of the comfort zone? Think about when you were a child and you really wanted to play soccer, or join a dance group, but decided not to participate, what was stopping you? You want to go to see a movie, but no one is available to go with you, so you stay at home. Why?

Fear, Right?

Fear is by far the most destructive emotion to get entangled with.

So how do we get out of this comfort zone… so we can see what’s on the other side, where the feelings of increased fulfillment, belief, confidence, financial freedom, and success live? When we step outside of the zone we step into a new world of limitless possibilities. Doors begin to open, and life becomes exciting.

Whether we are referring to life or business, all the magic happens outside of the comfort zone.

When I decided to start up my online business I was scared to death. I had no idea how long it would take for me to create the income to replace my regular salary, but I just went for it anyway. It felt like I was jumping off a cliff, but I am so glad I made that leap. Now I know why people say that you haven’t lived until stepping outside of your comfort zone.

I challenge you to begin looking for opportunities that make you slightly uncomfortable and tackle them. I’m not referring to anything major like changing jobs or buying a house. There are many ways to practice getting comfortable being uncomfortable.

Here are a few ideas to get your wheels turning.

• Share something with someone that leaves you vulnerable…something like a dream that you have or maybe telling someone you love them for the first time.

• Do something that scares you, like bungee jumping, skydiving, or maybe taking your dog to the park and

letting her off the leash for the first time. This was a bit frightening for me.

• Go to a city nearby that you’ve never been to and explore. You could even try to get a little lost. This

can be fun if you do it the right way. Just make sure you keep your cell phone with you.

• Spark up a conversation with someone you’ve never talked to before. It could be someone at work, in a coffee shop that you frequent, or even filling up at the gas station.

It may seem silly, but it can be very beneficial to practice. When bigger situations come along in your life and you need to make a decision, you will be more prepared. By practicing with small tasks, you can get a taste of what it feels like to step out of your comfort zone. Before you know it, you’ll be comfortable being uncomfortable.