How much do you need to push yourself out of your comfort zone to experience personal growth and develop as a person? Being a person who relishes in meaningful, quality conversations, reading by candlelight or adventures outdoors, I find that most situations that involve a forced social setting (like networking) or obligatory appearances make my skin crawl and my anxiety set in. I mean, every time I walk into a networking event, I feel like my soul is getting vigorously poked in the back by the Wicked Witches broom and the weight of a pointy, black hat is being forced upon my head! I don’t want to go into the darkness, but work, obligations, (whatever) are forcing me to. Putting yourself out of your comfort zone is important at times, but is it always really necessary? And how often? I often find myself labeling “yours truly” as the Cowardly Lion. I twirl my hair, bend my knees, and run away awkwardly into the forest, wondering if Dorothy will come rescue me. What IS the “healthy dose” of facing what you normally avoid? I always face the “nervous me” and do the job interview, the phone call I dread or attend the large party for a close friend that I don’t want to bail on. Those are “worth it things”. What about the things you could technically avoid without hurting anyone? Is it cowardly to bail, despite feeling obligated, and say “Nope. Not worth it.” Or is it a sense of wisdom in realizing that some things aren’t worth being anxious about and doing only those special, select situations is the right option? By being selective, you avoid stressing yourself out and are essentially putting your spirit and essence first. What’s the right “balance” of sacrificing who you are, versus putting yourself in empty situations that literally suck the life out of you, causing anxiety for days prior? I really wish I knew. Let me know if you do.
