For weeks, I have been struggling with my half broken handbag. I had a new one stashed away in the cupboard. But somehow I did not want to start using my new handbag. There was nothing wrong with it. I was just used to my old handbag’s side pockets and was worried that I wouldn’t be able to get used to using my new handbag. I do admit that I sometimes have a problem getting out of my comfort zone.
Finally, when I started using my new handbag, I felt so much better! My new handbag was not only made of a more sturdy material, but I also felt more comfortable using it because it has more compartments – which made it a better fit for my belongings. So the number one fear I had – which is having a hard time finding stuff was actually not a problem at all! In fact, with the more pockets my new handbag has, I find it even easier to find my stuff in this new handbag. It was like it was meant to be. All the fear and worry for nothing!
The moral of the story is – getting out of your comfort zone can be very difficult and challenging, especially when you’re used to doing things or having things in a certain way. But sometimes positive change can lead to much better outcomes than what you can imagine. That’s worth fighting for!
Have you been in a situation where you have been wanting to take the plunge for a new change but did not find the courage to do so? It could be trying out a new outfit style, going on that holiday you have always wished for but did not have the courage to plan for it, that new job you’ve been dreaming of, or setting your dream to become an entrepreneur, book author or creator of an awesome product! Whatever the case may be, there’s always ways to overcome your fear of getting out of your comfort zone.
Although there is no way to totally describe how this can be done – especially in steps, let me encourage you with these simple tips to give you hope for a positive change in your life. I know that at times, we get a little fickle minded. But it’s worth making a firm decision on the things that matters most in our lives.
Moving Out of Your Comfort Zone 101
The Unknown Seems Dangerous
Whenever you are trying out something new, you will tend to fear that the unknown is dangerous. Before you take any drastic steps in your life, careful planning is crucial. Do your research, ask your family and friends for unbiased views and read about write-ups that may inspire you on your journey to that specific change. Small changes like a change in fashion style or an overseas holiday vacation may be something very small. But huge changes like the repositioning of your career or making an investment decision should not be taken lightly. Take your time to decide, but do not take forever to make a decision. You will know when you are ready to take the leap.
You May Lose Everything You’ve Got
If you already have everything, there shouldn’t be a yearning for change from inside your inner being. If you feel unhappy or unsatisfied with certain areas of your life, it means that there is the need for change in your life. Sometimes, you will have to lose something to gain something even bigger. It may be relocating to a different location for a career change, or even something bigger.
What If You Made the Wrong Decision
There are times when you will be making wrong decisions. And that may end you up with unwanted consequences. However, how you deal with your negative outcomes will bring out the best in you and your life. I always feel that whenever we make mistakes, we can learn from them and improve ourselves so that we can be better prepared for the next battle. Eventually, after making some mistakes, we would get things right. And when you get things right, you’ll probably be overwhelmed with joy!
Suffering the Consequences
When we make decisions, especially tough ones, we must be ready to face the consequences. If the consequences are unpleasant, then a positive attitude is a must. Always be ready no matter the outcome. If you fail to reach the desired outcomes, evaluate your mistakes, give yourself a pat on the shoulder and see how you can make better decisions in the future. Give credit to yourself – knowing that at least you have given a go at reaching your dreams. Do not let bad consequences dampen your dreams. Keep on dreaming. You’ll reach your destination sooner than you think!
You May Look Stupid to Others
There are always people out there who are out to either encourage you or pull you down. Beware of hypocrites who pretend to be your friend, but discourage you in things that they know will actually bring good to your life just to see you fail. Please take into consideration that not everyone who discourages you would want you to fail in your life. Some of them are just too concerned or cautious themselves and may never make the same sort of decisions you have been thinking of making. Sometimes, those who discourage you have really made the decision you would like to make and have been unsuccessful in reaching their destinations. In this case, they want to save you from regretting later on. So weight out all the possibilities when receiving comments from other people about your decision – but make sure that the decision is ultimately yours.
I guess that’s all for now. So it’s time to get out of your comfort zone – move on with your life and do whatever you want with it. Life’s worth living when you keep on believing. Happy New Year 2017 and may the new year be filled with joy, hope and peace in your hearts. 🙂
