We know where our boundaries are. We know when we feel uncomfortable. But if we never push that comfort we don’t learn how to stretch those boundaries and experience new things.
I used to hate giving presentations, but now I love giving them. That’s because I’ve nudged myself into doing so many of them I can now enjoy the rapt attention of a room full of people and know I am in my comfort zone. I brought that into my bubble though experience, experimenting and repetition.
Another plus to feeling uncomfortable is how much it pushes you. I’m a huge softie at heart, but with every nudge and niggle I’m learning to be more assertive and to defend myself without losing my head. I recently sent a strongly-worded email which eloquently communicated my disagreement with a situation and resulted in not only a massive boost to my confidence and self esteem but to a complimentary gift as apology for the inconveniance. I wasn’t feeling too comfortable at the time. In fact I was destraught that I’d been placed in the position where such a complaint was needed. I’m glad I found the strength to stand my ground.
If we never stray from where we’re comfortable then we’re missing out on a wealth of growth and opportunity. Sometimes it pays to step out of the box.
Kirsty
Rosemonkey Diaries 