Sustainable Excellence Xtras # 79 - The Importance Of Stepping Outside Our Comfort Zones

When was the last time you did something you didn't want to do, something uncomfortable?

Our brains are hard-wired to avoid pain and discomfort and to seek pleasure. To the brain, the status quo, the way things are is comfortable and familiar and should be left alone.

But the only way we are going to grow, the only way we are going to improve, the only way we are going to get better is to step outside our comfort zones and do things that make us uncomfortable.

According to an article in Psychology Today (Campbell - 6/21/2022),  we can derive positive benefits from doing things that make us uncomfortable, such as:

1. Embracing feelings of discomfort can lead to more growth, motivation, and well-being.

2. Embracing discomfort makes a person more likely to be motivated to learn about opposing views.

3. Those who embrace discomfort are more likely to take creative risks in problem-solving and find meaning in difficulty.

4. If we embrace discomfort rather than thinking of it as a problem, we perform better. 

According to Campbell, "Often we approach the uncertainty of new experiences or challenges with doubt, fear, and anxiety. But if we view that stress and discomfort as part of our learning process and a growth opportunity, then we will experience more positive emotions..."

Please watch the video below to learn more about the importance of moving outside our comfort zones so we can attempt something we are passionate about.

Also please leave me a comment about a time when you stepped outside your comfort zones and what benefit you obtained from that action.