Off to the comfort zone - really? Talking from a courage point of view, it is usually all about leaving your comfort zone in order to progress, expand and grow to achieve a higher level of success and satisfaction.

The other day I let myself be inspired by a keynote of Martin Gaedt, (martingaedth.de) a German author, public speaker, trainer and consultant. Talking about his newly published book ‘Rock your work’,  he took the audience on a very special and creative journey.

Amongst other thought provoking comments, he spoke strongly in favour of the cosy comfort zone. His justification: In order to create something new, we need the tranquillity and peace of our comfort zone. We need to feel safe and comfortable before we can get out there, take risks and act courageously.

Although initially the thought of allowing oneself to stay in one's comfort zone or to step back into it, might seem a bit strange, the zone can create the bridge to courageous actions and make things happen.

At the end of the day we human beings prefer to feel secure and comfortable. We take refuge in this psychological state in order to feel safe. Our comfort zone reassures us that we are Ok. We feel a sense of being somewhere familiar, a sense of feeling protected and being in the driving seat, knowing what to do and how to act and react. The peace and tranquillity of our comfort zone might be required at times, especially when we feel overwhelmed by challenges and fear the future of the Unknown.

In general I agree with Martin Gaedt’s advice, but I would like to ask you to pay attention not to misuse this source of inspiration. I use the topic of courage as one of the main principals of my coaching and consulting. Time and time again it has been proven to me that the risk of remaining in the luxury of the comfort zone for too long is much higher than the risk of being challenged to move out of it.

The way we progress and move forward and the length of time we spend in our comfort zone depends on a number of various factors. While the motivation and the reasoning behind our desired objective is essential, other factors such as environmental pressure or the encouragement of relevant people around us also play a role. The way we act is very individual. Each and every one of us, our personality traits, our values, our experiences in life contribute to our actions.

I believe that ‘Off to the comfort zone’ is ok, as long as you do not let yourself be too immersed in the comfort of tranquillity, peace and relaxation. Use its power to energise you to feel safe and empower you to take action but:

Do not let it prevent you from moving forward.

Do not let your comfort zone put a stop to your desire to achieve your wishes and dreams, to fight for your rights, to raise your voice and to live the life and the work you want.

Do not let it eliminate or diminish your courage and your growth mindset.

Do not let your comfort zone weaken your mental, spiritual and physical fitness levels so that you can continue to master your fears and willingness to deal with risk and uncertainty.

The best way to decide whether or not to go ‘off to the comfort zone’ or to step ‘out of the comfort zone’ is to simply take a sheet of paper, draw a table and list all the pros and cons. This will provide you with an overview. It will allow you to take a step back and look at the situation from a different perspective. Use your rational mind, but also consider your emotions and decide wisely.

If you are feeling confused, fearful or in doubt, get the help and support you need.

Let me know about your experiences and stories with regards to your comfort zone: Contact.