The comfort zone is a psychological state in which one feels familiar, safe, at ease, and secure. You never change your life until you step out of your comfort zone; change begins at the end of your comfort zone.
―Roy T. Bennett
One of my principles in life has always been to show up, especially when I don’t feel like it, because I believe that pushing myself not forcefully but gently by one inch every day is the way to accomplish things. Maybe not the fastest but the safest way for me. If I don’t show up if I don’t even try, how can I know what I am capable of anyway?
Okay, don’t jump in the water when you don’t even know how to swim. But start with getting your feet wet. Set your goal, put a date on it, then reverse-engineer your steps to get there. That’s what I do when I feel intimidated by a decision I’ve made. I immediately set a date. If possible, I announce it so that I cannot back away from my commitment. And by doing that, I keep myself accountable for the decision I’ve made, not only to myself but to the others who now know about my plan.
I know it’s a scary feeling to commit to doing something that you’re not 100% comfortable about, but if you try to keep yourself safe in that cozy and comfy environment all the time, how could you widen your horizons? How could you use your potential to the fullest?
You are the creator of your life. You shape the path that appears in front of you. But if you don’t push yourself a little bit, you can’t grow or learn.
Commit fiercely, believe in yourself fully, and make sure you show up. You’ll see that the rest will unfold perfectly.
Ipek: This is very affirming to us. Mariah and I have a favorited expression: ‘just keep showing up.’ It’s taken us far and wide, to an exotic and fulfilling life unlike any we ever anticipated, much to the chagrin of some family & (fearful) friends. So thanks for ‘showing up’ with the important message.
BE
And thank you, Byron for taking the time to comment and share your and Mariah’s journey that boldens the meaning of showing up. I appreciate you.
Dear Ipek. One, two–knockout punch! What a great article–about “commiting” to our dream and showing up…to make it manifest. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Short and sweet, right, Arthur? 🙂 To the point… Thank you for your kind support, my friend. You are a gift.