Are You Too Comfortable? If So, You're Slowly Dying!
The Value of Discomfort
I’m Dan Gazaway, your mental performance coach. Today, I want to talk to you about something I wish someone had told me when I was younger: the importance of seeking out opportunities that make you uncomfortable. Comfort and growth are not friends. Growth happens just outside of your comfort zone. I'll share a couple of examples from my life to illustrate how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to significant growth, particularly in public speaking and baseball.
Many of us avoid situations that make us uncomfortable, but doing so can hinder our growth. It is often said that growth happens just outside of our comfort zones. By intentionally seeking discomfort, we push our boundaries and learn new things about ourselves and our capabilities.
Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking
Public speaking is a common fear, causing anxiety for many people. I experienced this firsthand. Despite speaking in church to 200-300 people and delivering familiar topics, I didn't truly improve until I was thrown onto a stage in a professional setting.
Fifteen years ago, I took a job in network marketing that required frequent public speaking. Initially, I was nervous. During an interview, I had to give a 20-minute presentation about baseball, a topic I was comfortable with. This opportunity was nerve-wracking, but it pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Building Confidence Through Repetition
In network marketing, I had to introduce myself and speak in front of various groups. My first task was to introduce myself in front of 20-25 couples. My hands were sweaty, and I was incredibly nervous, but I did it. Over time, I started speaking to larger audiences, from 100 to 300 people, and eventually, I spoke to 14,000 people. Repeatedly facing my fears helped me become more comfortable and confident.
Embracing Uncomfortable Situations
Even after years of experience, I still get a little nervous on stage, and I see this as a good thing. Being uncomfortable means I’m still learning and growing. Comfort breeds complacency, and complacency kills growth.
Applying Discomfort in Sports
The same principle applies to sports. In baseball, if you're comfortable hitting at a certain speed, you need to push yourself to the next level. Increase the speed, face live pitching, and gradually introduce more challenging scenarios. If you’re never uncomfortable, you're not working hard enough.
Seeking Discomfort in Everyday Life
In your daily life, look for opportunities that make you uncomfortable. I give my students assignments to introduce themselves to two new people every day. This exercise pushes them out of their comfort zones and helps them grow.
Conclusion
My invitation to you today is to seek out opportunities that make you uncomfortable. Whether it’s public speaking, advancing in your sport, or simply introducing yourself to new people, stepping out of your comfort zone will lead to personal growth. Embrace discomfort and watch yourself evolve.
Remember, comfort is the enemy of growth. If you're too comfortable, you're slowly dying. Push your boundaries and thrive in the face of discomfort.
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