Get comfortable with being uncomfortable
Do you avoid challenges, embrace them, or something in between? To be honest, I fall into the something-in-between category. I approach challenges with a healthy dose of fear and excitement especially when it comes to making major life changes. What I have learned along the way is that challenging myself to make those changes is uncomfortable and I need to be ok with being uncomfortable.
Why is being comfortable with being uncomfortable important? What benefits does it offer?
It expands your comfort zone. What once was uncomfortable eventually becomes familiar setting you up to handle challenges with less fear.
It enhances your ability to adapt to new situations. Nothing goes exactly to plan. Adaptability is essential to managing any major life change.
It finetunes your decision-making and problem-solving skills. Challenges such as major life changes can involve making some tough decisions. Developing the ability to make decisions and solve problems in challenging situations can build these skills.
It prevents stagnation. Most of us are prone to staying in our comfort zone for some time, and possibly, a very long time. We become complacent. If we allow our discomfort to move us forward, it can stop us from getting stuck in the same old same old.
It opens you to taking risks. There’s always some amount of risk in making changes in your life. Becoming more comfortable with risk opens you up to new possibilities you wouldn’t otherwise consider.
It fosters confidence and resilience. Each success despite discomfort, reinforces your belief that you can handle any challenges that come your way. It also arms you with the emotional resilience to handle any setbacks.
It encourages a growth mindset. You switch the narrative from “challenges” to “opportunities” which may even lead you to embrace change. It will certainly lessen the fears that often come with it.
You probably heard the phrase “The only constant in life is change.” Change is inevitable and challenges will arise. Being comfortable with this reality will go a long way in preparing you for life’s inherent uncertainties.