Want to grow in your career… in your life? Move Outside Your Comfort Zone

By Lisa Hunt, COO, Plexpack

While scrolling through my LinkedIn and Instagram feeds a while ago, I came across this great image. I can’t remember from where it originated – but it spoke to me.

Who doesn’t like being comfortable? That’s what most of us strive for: a cozy home to go to at the end of the day; a way to reduce stress in the workplace; an anxiety-free life.

But can you grow if you are not stretched, challenged or moved out of your comfort zone?

I am an introvert. Generally speaking, I like the quiet life. I don’t jump off canyons, or ride roller coasters, or travel to exotic locales to hitchhike or camp outdoors. In my heart I am the opposite of a thrill seeker. I am a comfort seeker.

But here is my realization looking back over the years:  I have been happiest in my career when it has pushed me into unknown territories.

When there is disruption in business from any variety of directions, along with it comes stress and a natural fear of change (whether personal, corporate or both). That fear used to be daunting. But now I know the fear intrinsically motivates me to perform better. When put in a new role or given a project I fear I am not 100% ready or qualified to take on, then I am driven to take it on 100%. I want to prove (to others but more importantly to me) that I can do it. And do it well.

There is a freedom in stretching yourself, learning something new, being open to new challenges... because in the end, it changes who you are and opens the doors to new thinking, new opportunities and new goals.

Like many people, I had a fear of speaking in front of people. Then I did it a few times. The first time I stunk – all nerves, shaky voice and stumbling over words. I was in awe of these amazing rock star CEOs who deliver unforgettable, witty and moving speeches. But I tried again anyway, and it was a little better.  Now, I enjoy the experience. It’s not that I am a master speech writer or orator; far from it! But I now have a confidence to keep trying and an interest to grow that capability, and that comes simply from pushing out of my comfort zone, collapsing unfounded concerns and gaining feedback.

Once you move past the unknown, you travel through fear to growth and freedom.  

The same was true when my company moved me from marketing to operations. It was scary to take on a role leading processes I knew little about, not to mention a plant full of experienced tradesmen and long-term employees. I had challenges, stressors, failures and terrible moments. I also absorbed huge gains in learning and expertise, formed new relationships, celebrated successes and achieved massive personal and professional growth. Today I am a COO. I couldn’t have achieved that inside my comfort zone.

But more importantly, and irrespective of the goal or a title, you are spurred forward into new avenues of growth, interest and development. That’s the real advantage.

I have read research that suggests there is a “healthy” stress that enhances performance, drives new behaviors and propels you forward. I believe it. I have found moving out of my comfort zone produces something tangible – providing depth to my career and my life. And it makes me happier.

So, when there is an opportunity for something new, a cultural shift, a new responsibility, a challenge ahead… chase it and take it, even when you fear you can’t succeed. Because regardless of the goal’s realization, you will succeed in stepping out of your comfort zone and on a forward path to new insights and growth.