One of the common bits of advice we’re given by friends, family and even psychologists is to expand our ‘comfort zone’. This is good advice, it’s a fundamental element of personal growth and it helps us to overcome psychological barriers that may be holding back our careers, our relationships and our self-confidence.
The comfort zone question has been heavily researched and credible evidence suggests that our brains are physiologically altered by the uncertainty that accompanies new experiences, especially those where the outcome is uncertain – much like it would be when we operate outside of our comfort zones.
The question is, how exactly should we go about it?
Just like any new experience, the key is to take baby steps. Expecting a person who is brand new to running to compete in the London marathon is a tad unrealistic, but with progressively more training over gently increasing distances, the person in this example will be capable of running a marathon.
The same applies to any other area of our lives in which we aim to grow. If social anxiety is a problem for you, take baby steps. Meet friends in small groups in an environment where you feel comfortable – your house for example. In time, make the group bigger – invite new people but maintain a comfortable environment. Perhaps the next step could be to expand your comfort zone by meeting the group outside in a public place. Think baby steps.
The focus on the next step is the important bit – if you look too far ahead you run the risk of making the journey appear more intimidating than it needs to be.
We’re
all capable of much more than we think. We’re living examples of our ability to
grow – once upon a time the ability to read was beyond us, but with
appropriate, progressively more difficult practice we mastered the art. Writing
is the same, driving too – any skill you’ve learned, you weren’t born with.
Expanding our comfort zone is fundamental to our growth and improved mental
health. It makes us more robust and resilient, can improve self-confidence and
as the research shared here shows, brain function, too. Seek to expand yours!
