(2 mins read)
In our comfort-obsessed world, most of us unconsciously try to avoid anything that causes discomfort or anxiety. We seek out easy and comfortable life with our family and friends, in a sunny place, with a glass of red wine and snack in our hands, and a calming noise of ocean waves. However, intentionally seeking out discomfort can actually be a powerful tool for personal growth and development.
Staying within our comfort zone is seductive to our brain. Our brain is programmed in such a way that it guides us on how to survive with minimum energy spent and on how to avoid dangerous situations. However, we could name our comfort zones as boring or in some extreme circumstances even dying zones.
How can discomfort influence and change our lives?
- Discomfort pushes us out of our comfort zones – Our comfort zones are familiar and cozy, they are full of familiar and routine activities and events. We are there in full control of what’s happening. However, if we scratch the surface of our comfort zone a bit, we discover that in reality they are built on stagnation, complacency, and even mirage. Discomfort will push us out from our comfort zones. It will help us find comfort in new, uncomfortable places, which can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
- Discomfort builds character – Looking for joy beyond our comfort zone requires courage and determination. This experience will help us build a strong character and enjoy even more challenges in the future.
- Discomfort stimulates curiosity – We know that there are two sure things in our life: death and taxes. We could add another one: change. Life is constantly changing with new technologies or innovations, and our ability to adapt is crucial for success. When we start enjoying discomfort, when we start playing with it, it will influence our flexibility and adaptability. Be curious and explore what’s new and exciting for you.
- Discomfort fosters resilience – When we face setbacks, headwinds, problems, issues, challenges, we develop a greater ability to cope with anxiety, stress, and the unknown. Resilience will not only help us survive in new challenging situations, but it will also help us enjoy discomfort.
- Discomfort sparks innovation and creativity – Old keys will not open new doors. Stagnation and routine are killers for creativity and innovation. Discomfort will help shake our ability to solve problems and inspire us to think more creatively.
While discomfort can be uncomfortable in the moment, it can ultimately lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life by pushing us to grow, adapt, and become the best versions of ourselves.
Before we cross the border between our comfort zone and a challenging area, we need to understand more about our preferences and abilities.
- When was the last time you tried something new or stepped outside your routine?
- How do you react when faced with unexpected challenges or changes?
- Do you find yourself avoiding certain situations or opportunities due to fear or discomfort?
- Are you willing to take calculated risks in pursuit of your goals, or do you prefer to play it safe?
- How often do you set goals that challenge your current skill set or knowledge?
- When faced with uncertainty, do you lean towards embracing the unknown or seeking stability?
The next step would be to practice some specific techniques to develop curiosity, agility, flexibility, resilience, or creativity. Below are some examples:
- Need inspiration? Read an article or a book on a subject you don’t know anything about.
- Need a physical challenge? Try a new workout or increase the intensity of your current one. For instance, if you run 5k, consider adding an extra kilometer or aim for a 10k run.
- Are you a shy person? Start a conversation with a stranger on a train, airplane, or tram.
- Afraid of cold water and ice? Take an ice bath.
- Tired of your daily routine? Try waking up an hour earlier, have lunch in a new place, or avoid using social media during the day.
- Bored with your daily commute to work? Take a new route or, instead of driving, cycle to work.
- Need intellectual stimulation? Sign up for a class, pick up a new hobby, or read a book from a different genre.
- Feeling bored on weekends? Travel to a new place where you’ll be exposed to new cultures and meet new people.
- Want to build your own network? Attend meet-up groups, join book clubs, or connect with inspirational people on social media.
Regularly exposing yourself to experiences that make you uncomfortable awakens your senses
Rather than automatically avoiding feelings of discomfort, try leaning into them with curiosity. Let their motivating energy inspire you to step outside your comfort zone. There’s a profound sense of empowerment that emerges when you prove to yourself that you can move through anxiety and come out stronger on the other side.
Find comfort outside your comfort zone.
Every Day Development 