I’m a city girl! I was born and raised in the city. When I was growing up, we would go on Sunday drives to the country. Before I go any further, let me define how we defined “country.” It was crossing the bridge to New Jersey.
To experience the country life, we would go and visit my uncle, who lived in New Jersey. Now my uncle lived on a small farm with chickens, a cow, and vegetables.
While I enjoyed visiting my uncle and helping him pick vegetables, it was not a lifestyle I would choose. I didn’t like animals. They smelled and pooped everywhere. Country life was definitely outside of my comfort zone.
During a recent vacation, I had the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone. Over the years, my husband and I have taken numerous cruises. Before selecting our excursions, I suggested we select a horseback ride along the beach.
However, when it is time to select our excursions, I always change my mind. My husband would ask why? I would tell him horses smell, and they poop everywhere. But the truth is I was afraid of the horses.
As my husband planned our vacation, he asked me again if I wanted to go on a horseback ride. I reluctantly agreed. Why? Because my husband reminded me of the advice, I give my clients. As a coach, I encourage my clients to move outside their comfort zone to grow and reach their potential.
When the day arrived for our excursion, I was excited and afraid at the same time. As we rode to our drop off point, I gave myself a rousing pep talk about overcoming fear. I reminded myself of the joy I would feel once I completed my goal.
Once the bus stopped and we unloaded I wondered, how did I get myself into this situation? But it was too late to turn back, so it was time to follow my own advice and “man or woman up!”
After our safety briefing, our guide paired us with a horse. I was blessed to ride Blue. He was a gentle horse and perfect for a novice. As I mounted Blue, I decided to enjoy myself.
Well, the next three hours were awesome! Blue and I managed to navigate the trail along the beach with no problem. While I enjoyed the trot along the beach, the best part of the excursion was the swim. Although several members of our group fell off their horse during the swim, Blue and I successfully completed the swim as a team.
As Blue and I emerged from the water, I was beaming with pride. While I don’t plan on training to compete in the equestrian competitions at the Summer Olympics, I have grown as a person and a leader.
“When you go out of your comfort zone, and it works, there’s nothing more satisfying.”
Kristen Wiig
Stepping out of your comfort zone helps you face different challenges of life. It helps you increase your stamina, adaptability, creativity, and productivity.
Are you stepping out of your comfort zone to reach your potential?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Lead Confidently | Expand Influence | Achieve Significance
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