Success is not always a comfortable place. Well, it's usually more comfortable once you've arrived, but getting there can require you to walk on a path that has you itchy, anxious and wishing you could turn around and jump back in the zone.
Whether your comfort zone keeps you from starting a business, asking for referrals, attending live networking events, selling your products and services unabashed, or getting up in front of an audience, there is a lot to be gained by pushing yourself out. Even if it's just a toe at a time.
Here are a few ways to ease the pain of the process and get yourself out of your comfort zone and onto something new.
Set a Good Pace
Figure out what pace works for your timeline, schedule and priorities. Is slow and steady the right pace? Or will it be more effective to go fast, like ripping off a bandage?
Do Your Research
Know what you're getting into, who will be involved and what the real risks are. And think through the end result -- what do you have to gain? This knowledge will help you get prepared for the process and the outcome.
Make a Plan
Once you've researched as much as you can, devise a plan that takes you through each step. It can be helpful to use goal setting, then assign dates to different milestones and track your progress as you go.
Grab a Friend
A little moral support can go a long way. Bring a friend to a networking event, invite a trusted colleague to share an opinion on a new venture, or ask a client to introduce you to contacts who can help your process along.
Focus on the End
Once you're out of your comfort zone, doing whatever it is you've worked so hard to do, keep your eye on the prize. Remind yourself why it's worth it. And when the going gets tough, remember that this won't last forever.
Going out of your comfort zone might make you feel very uncomfortable, so uncomfortable that you don't want to do it. But I can tell you this: If you push yourself out of your comfort zone and just go for it, you are almost guaranteed to come away a winner, whether the outcome is exactly what you hoped for or an irreplaceable lesson learned.
How are you going to break out of your comfort zone?
Photo (c) benedeki
damn true..alyssa, I am heading a start up centre.I can really relate to it.thanx
Thanks for this list Alyssa. I concur on all fronts. Our ultimate success depends on us operating outside of our comfort zone. As you say, it all boils down to four things: Build Knowledge, Make a Plan, Take Action, Get Support.
The Fulcrum Institute helps small business owners and executives develop powerful business-growth strategies, translate those strategies into effective, results-oriented action plans, and align and optimize resources take consistent, appropriate daily action to achieve milestones, drive revenue and increase productivity.
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That is true! Just when I needed to hear those words from an expert. I shall definitely implement and work on it
literally it was good article since i m planning to start my own buisness…it would help me…