We all have things that make us uncomfortable. It could be public speaking, meeting new people, or trying new foods. Let’s start by talking about some common scenarios where we might be standing under the spotlight of being uncomfortable.
My most uncomfortable and disliked scenario is public speaking. Back in corporate days I absolutely dreaded any sort of group meeting where I was required to speak at some point. Especially when I know 60% of them are fault-finders.
Signing up for in-person events and actually showing up would be my other ongoing life lesson of learning to be comfortable while being uncomfortable.
Being vulnerable is likely one scenario most people can relate to. And maybe avoid it at all costs. We will need a separate blog post for that!
But what if I told you that being uncomfortable is actually good for you?
That’s right. Being uncomfortable can help you grow, learn, and become a better person.
Here’s why:
- It challenges you to step outside your comfort zone. When you do things that make you uncomfortable, you’re forced to step outside of your familiar routines and experiences. This can be scary at first, but it’s also a great way to learn and grow.
- It helps you build resilience. The more you face discomfort, the more resilient you become. You learn to cope with stress and challenges, and you become more confident in your ability to handle whatever life throws your way.
- It opens up new possibilities. When you’re willing to step outside of your comfort zone, you open yourself up to new experiences and opportunities. You might meet new people, learn new things, or even discover new talents.
So how do you get comfortable being uncomfortable?
Start small. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start by challenging yourself with small things that make you feel a little bit uncomfortable. For example, if you’re afraid of public speaking, start by giving a short presentation to your friends or family.
Be mindful of your thoughts. When you’re in an uncomfortable situation, pay attention to your thoughts. What are you telling yourself? Are you catastrophizing or assuming the worst? If so, try to challenge those thoughts and replace them with more positive ones.
Focus on the benefits. Remind yourself of the benefits of being uncomfortable. For example, you might learn something new, meet new people, or build your confidence.
Celebrate your successes. When you do something that makes you uncomfortable, celebrate your success! This will help you stay motivated and keep pushing yourself.
Getting comfortable being uncomfortable is not easy, but it’s worth it. The more you push yourself, the more you’ll grow as a person. So don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things. You might be surprised at what you’re capable of.
Here are some additional tips for getting comfortable being uncomfortable:
- Find a supportive community. Having people who believe in you and support your growth can make a big difference.
- Set realistic goals. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with small, achievable goals and gradually work your way up.
- Be patient. It takes time to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep pushing yourself and eventually you’ll reach your goals.
I hope these tips help you get comfortable being uncomfortable.
Remember, it’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. The more you push yourself, the more you’ll grow as a person.
