Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone

By Scott Westerman

Listen to an audio version of this message.

We cannot become what we want to be by remaining what we are. ~ Max DePree

We love our comfort zones. Even an uncomfortable status quo is preferable to the unknown. But things change. We outgrow a job, or the job outgrows us. A relationship ends. A health crisis appears. Or the sting of an unhappy current reality becomes so great that we are forced to step outside of our self imposed boundaries.

This is one of life’s great ironies. We often fight to stay inside the box when the very thing we need fuel our future lies on the outside.

What are the things that are keeping you inside your comfort zone. How many of them are self imposed? Every single one.

The next chapter of your life’s adventure will be written with or without your direct involvement. Maybe it’s time to imagine what that chapter might be, if your uncomfortable comfort zone didn’t exist.

As I was researching this week’s message, I discovered this anonymous poem, which I’ve customized just for you. I hope it gets you thinking about those self imposed limitations, and the opportunities that lie beyond them.

I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I wouldn’t fail.
The same four walls and busywork were really more like jail.
I longed so much to do the things I’d never done before,
But stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.

I didn’t want to do build the traits successful people share.
I watched my friends advance and thrive, pretending not to care.
I claimed to be so busy with the things inside the zone,
But deep inside I longed for something special of my own.

I couldn’t let my life go by just watching others grow.
I held my breath; I stepped outside and let the changes flow.
I took a step and with new strength I’d never felt before,
I kissed my comfort zone goodbye and closed and locked the door.

If you’re in a comfort zone, afraid to venture out,
Remember that our heroes were at one time filled with doubt.
A step or two and words of praise can make your dreams come true.
Reach for your future with a smile; happiness is there for you!

Feedback is always welcome to Scott@Spartanology.com