Wouldn’t it be nice if the journey to success were a smooth and comfortable one? Unfortunately, as you probably know, that isn’t the case. The path is often bumpy and uncomfortable, because success isn’t found sitting on your couch or confined to your bubble of security.
Thankfully, you don’t have to go skydiving or cliff jumping to leave your comfort zone and further your success. Here are some proven ways to expand your comfort zone and your life:
Give and take critical feedback.
Nobody likes receiving feedback, but as Bill Gates once said, “We all need people who will give us feedback. That’s how we improve”
Feedback develops humility and self-awareness and challenges perfectionism. Neither giving nor receiving critical feedback is ever easy, but remember that nothing worthwhile really ever is. However, if you learn to be open to feedback, you’ll see progress in your skill development and overall personal growth too.
Take compliments.
When many of us are given a compliment, our knee jerk reaction is to immediately jump to how we didn’t measure up or what we could have done better. These reactions, however, can have a negative effect on our self-confidence, our future career and even our relationships.
If you work hard on something, why dismiss any positive feedback that deservingly comes your way? Instead, leave your comfort zone by learning to accept compliments. You’ll gain the chance to see yourself as your peers do, and odds are you’re confidence will soar.
Admit mistakes.
Uncomfortable doesn’t even begin to describe what making a mistake feels like. However, mistakes can almost always be turned around. The most effective way to replace that sinking feeling is to properly assess the situation and take action.
To become an effective leader we must take on the responsibility of understanding our successes and our failures. Learning to admit mistakes will help you to earn respect, lead by example and build a culture of trust with your peers and colleagues.
Do you have any other tips for leaving one’s comfort zone? Share them with me on Twitter!
