We’ve all heard the same advice to get out of our “comfort zone” to stretch ourselves and try new things. Most people agree with this statement but what do we really know about the comfort zone besides its uncomfortable and we need to get out of it. We’re ruled by our habits. We do things the same old way because it’s comfortable. But the risk in staying firmly inside our comfort zones is that it creates psychological barriers that can lead to real limitations. There are many different scientific explanations of what exactly the comfort zone is, but simply put it is a behavioral space where activities and behaviors fit a certain routine and pattern that minimizes stress and risk levels. It provides a state of mental security. You benefit in obvious ways: regular happiness, low anxiety, and reduced stress. On the other hand having a comfort zone mindset can cause complacency in many different areas of your life.

In many cases what keeps many of us from getting everything we want in life and more are the reluctance to change. A lot of times we want to minimize the stress that may be caused by breaking the norm and making changes that may be risky. Sometimes it can be justified because life is stressful enough just living our daily lives. However, we may know in our heart of hearts that the job or relationship is not right for us. We endure them because we fear what is next, or stuck in a fixated pattern based in our past experiences. Whatever it may be anyone can break out of their comfort zone and create positive change. Here are six ways you can break out of your comfort zone and into the greatness you deserve.

1. Knowing & Accepting What’s Outside of Your Comfort Zone:

Simply said what are the things that you believe are worth doing but are afraid of doing yourself because of the potential for disappointment or failure. Once you accept this it is the first step to getting past this anxiety.

2. Do What Scares You Every Day:

Do something every day that scares you. This would be a powerful step this would be to make a conscious effort to take this step. It can open up all possibilities maybe new friendships or new opportunities.

3. Embrace Failure:

Many of us are so afraid of failure, that we would rather do nothing than take a shot at our dreams. Begin to treat failure as a lesson that you can learn from.  The next time you fail ask yourself questions like what did I learn from the experience? How can I take that lesson to your next venture to increase my chance of success?

4. Change Your Mindset:

This is a huge step when we change our thoughts we can improve our mindset. This takes mental stamina and discipline. A helpful way to start retraining your mind is by thinking and reading positive messages this helps to create a desire on whom you want to become and say them every day. Eventually these affirmations will become a part of your belief system.

5. Make A Bold Move Towards Your Dreams:

Sometimes we just need to put our best foot forward and take a risk with great risk there is also great reward. For example, many people dream to leave their eight to five job to pursue a hobby that has been a passion of theirs for years. They just need to figure out how to make it happen. The first step is to set reasonable time limits on yourself to reach or pursue certain goals. Once you done this you can start on the road to getting out of your comfort zone.

6. Connect/Network With Other Risk Takers:

This is an very important step if you want to learn or become better at something there is no substitute for simply knowing people who are doing what you want to do and start asking questions and emulating them.

Your comfort zone is neither a good or bad thing. It’s a natural state that most people trend towards. Leaving it means increased risk and anxiety, which can have positive and negative results, but don’t demonize your comfort zone as something holding you back. We all need that head-space where we’re least anxious and stressed so we can process the benefits we get when we leave it. Always remember only courageous people accomplish their dreams. This applies to big dreams, and also to simple everyday dreams. If you enjoyed this post comment below if you have stepped out of your comfort zone and what was the results. Also if you liked this post don’t forget to like and please share!

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