The Discomfort Zone
Would you like a job that is easy and stress-free – one with no fear and risks? Who wouldn’t? But that also means a job without challenges and growth opportunities. It means a stable job to the point of monotony. And that’s why it’s time to move to the ‘discomfort zone’. You need to regroup your thoughts and energy, become more inspired and more passionate about your work. Possibilities lie in your discomfort zone. It is a place where there is no monotony, no dull days and no what ifs. It is where you automatically take complete control of everything and ultimately drive your career.
Positive reaction and adaption to change is good. Being a change driver is even better. Change the way you face challenges, face them instead of just coping.
Thrive in your Discomfort Zone
The first step is the decision to move out of your comfort zone. Bid farewell to that risk-free and predictable routine. Begin asking ‘what next’ instead of ‘what if’? That’s the first step into your discomfort zone.
Be a Change Driver
Positive reaction and adaption to change is good. Being a change driver is even better. Change the way you face challenges, face them instead of just coping. Make an immediate action plan as to what you need to do now to get to the next action. Learn what is expected from you and change your skills. The important part is figuring out the skills that are in demand right now, and those that will be in demand tomorrow. Turn tech savvy. In a world that’s practically run by technology, you can’t ignore both existing and emerging technologies. Take it as a challenge and face it even if it is. Do you have it in you to change the way the river flows?
Re-Brand Yourself
You might have worked hard to build an image, an identity of who you are and what you offer. It’s worked so far and has helped pay the bills. But can you be complacent? Don’t limit yourself. When you constrain yourself inside a frame, people will assume you have only ‘that much’ to offer. Upgrade and re-brand yourself. If you look at it, the one thing that keeps you away from trying and learning new things is fear. Fear of losing what you have earned so far and fear of failure and criticisms. Let go of these fears and step out. Magic happens right out of your comfort zone.
Build a Network
Build or join a network of people who would encourage you and not mock you, a network that would push you to challenge your limits. It doesn’t mean anything if you have important people like your company’s VP in your Linkedin profile. Build a network that you can leverage. Groups of strangers who like to try new things are much better than a group of close acquaintances who are stagnant. Being a part of such groups gets you closer to realising your goals, like interacting with new people for instance. It doesn’t matter if you lead or follow, do not be stagnant and do not stay idle with people you are comfortable with.
Go Get It
When you find you and your team in turmoil, step up and be a part of the solution. People who take up responsibilities and accountability are celebrated and envied. You can curl up and self-preserve or stand up and make a difference and earn respect. Choose to lead, and lead by example. Charge ahead with confidence and courage.
Every time you procrastinate, you are pushing your goal further away. It affects your commitment and puts you back right where you started – fearing failure. Do what it takes and do it now.
Know Your Company
If there is one thing that is very clear to me after all these years, it is that most employees do not understand their company’s need, requirements, target and mission. Look beyond your team and interact with people. This would help you explore opportunities and let you know what kind of skills and resources your company needs and will need in the future. Follow your company on social media and update your knowledge.
Take the Punch
Everything will seem hard the first time you burst your bubble. You might feel overwhelmed or find new projects to be challenging. But remember, the pain is only short term. Start over if you have to. The reward is the experience and the success that is sure to follow.
Don’t limit yourself. When you constrain yourself inside a frame, people will assume you have only ‘that much’ to offer. Upgrade and re-brand yourself.
Do Not Procrastinate
Procrastination is the crutch of the weak. There’s no time like now to get started. Every time you procrastinate, you are pushing your goal further away. It affects your commitment and puts you back right where you started – fearing failure. Do what it takes and do it now.
None of the above are to suggest you put up with a hundred percent discomfort in order to succeed. You would ideally need a balance. Use your comfort zone to rest, regroup your thoughts and recharge yourself. It is time that you take charge of your career. Get out there and evolve in your discomfort zone!
Author Bio
Bhavana Yerrumreddy, Vice President, Customer Experience Industry Solutions, ITC InfoTech. Would you like to find out more? Why not read Bhavana’s inspirational woman interview?
