One can learn a lot about themselves when they are put into situations that they are uncomfortable with. How many times have you come up with an idea that you loved but stopped yourself from following through with even a modest attempt? If you're like me, quite a few. The reason is we are a little afraid to step out of our comfort zone.
The real definition here will be unique to every individual. A general definition would be: Knowingly placing yourself in a situation that you feel mentally, emotionally and/or physically uncomfortable with.
A good example would be a job interview for a newer or unfamiliar position. When I started working in IT my first job was doing tech support (ugh, for AOL even). After a few years I went out and tried to get a Linux sysadmin gig and since I had no professional experience I was very nervous and uncomfortable going into the interview. Because I was uncomfortable, it made me prepare more which helped boost my confidence and I ended up giving a great interview and got the job.
Many years later I was tired of the sysadmin stuff and wanted to move more into a full time development position. Again, I had no experience as a full time developer so I brushed up and landed a new gig writing code for a living.
Whenever you are considering a new idea or venture there will always be the naysayers who will try to discourage you. But sometimes the biggest barrier you have to cross is yourself. Don't let your reservations stand in the way of your personal success.
Once you have stepped out of your comfort zone you will probably surprise yourself. Most people will rise to the challenge when faced with adversity. The fact that you will mentally prepare yourself for this challenge will give you a jolt and you will hit the ground running.
Sometimes you just have to follow what your gut is telling you. Sometimes that involves leaving a very happy & comfortable situation. As Steve Pavlina puts it: "Intuition is just as important in business as it is in other settings. You’d be amazed at how many gigantic corporate deals are green-lighted or red-lighted because of some CEO’s gut feeling."
When thinking about a potentially life changing decision one will usually do some research and follow all the appropriate steps to making the decision — and then never actually make that decision.
If you choose to step out of your comfort zone you may or may not succeed. Regardless of the outcome you will benefit from the experience. The education it provides will be invaluable through out your life time. It will help you in future attempts at risk in your personal and professional life.
Right now I am personally out of my comfort zone. Building a new business is exciting, fun and a very scary. I am very confident I will succeed but if I don't, I am very happy for the experience. I've wanted to start a company for as long as I can remember but never had the guts to take that first step.
I'm sure a lot of you out there feel similar to how I did. Don't continue to hesitate; take that first step — even if it's just a small one — out of your comfort zone.