In last week’s episode, we talked about the four zones of growth. And for that, I referred to a super helpful infographic that shows how the four zones relate to each other. It’s posted on my Instagram, and we’ll be referring to that again in today’s episode, so be sure to go check that out @thepurposefulcareer.

Last episode, we also talked about the things we think and feel in each zone, how the zones relate to the other and how, over the course of our lives, we go through these four zones again and again. Basically, whenever we pursue a big new goal or go after something new and big, we go through these four zones of growth. And each time we try something new, go through these four zones, we become more confident in our ability to try and master new things. The fear zone basically becomes less of a ‘thing’ for us because as we get comfortable working our way through the uncertainty and awkwardness of trying something new, most of us find a way to reframe the fear. 

Which is mostly a fear of failure, right? We’ve never done the thing before so that fear zone is all about what we’re making failure mean. We’ll talk more about this in a minute, but it’s important to remember. 

We also talked a lot about the Comfort Zone. It’s the great seducer. Because the truth is, this is where most people stay. 

It’s why we quit on our new year’s resolutions. It’s why we don’t stick with the diet or workout routine. It’s why we stay in that job or career path we hate or the relationship we don’t want instead of going after something new.

The comfort zone seduces us because it’s the warm and cozy place where we feel safe and in control. Where we know what to expect. Where we know how to do all the things. And it’s the place where we never have to feel the discomfort or awkwardness we inevitably feel when we attempt something new. 

We don’t have to deal with failure in the comfort zone. So many times, we can make the mistake of believing that this means we “should” stay in the comfort zone. And most people do.

But as I shared last week, the comfort zone is the place where passion goes to die. Stay too long in a job you hate and see where that gets you. You might be comfortable but you’re probably miserable too. Because somewhere inside, you know you really want to do something different or next level.

The comfort zone holds us back because it keeps us from trying new things. Which prevents us from growing and learning. Our world stays small and familiar which in a way can be soothing. But at the same time, we also know that it’s preventing us from living up to our full potential. 

So today we’re going to talk about Leaving the Comfort Zone. Because leaving the comfort zone and heading into the fear zone takes a strong and compelling reason that’ll make the effort worth it. And it’ll take even more personal commitment to stay in the fear zone until you get through it into learning and growth.

I’m also going to give you a super helpful exercise that’ll give you the perspective you need to get going. And with the first of the year rapidly approaching, it’s the perfect time to be thinking about this as you consider what new big things you might want to tackle for next year. 

For more, give the episode a listen.

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