The clients I work with hear me say this a lot….”Comfort does not equal happiness.” Sometimes we find ourselves staying in a situation because we know what to expect, or because it feels controlled. Change can be scary, anxiety producing, and uncomfortable, but it is inevitable. The good news? God is with you, and he has a plan for your life. If we don’t step out in faith, we may not be living out the path that God has for our lives. You can move beyond your comfort zone by learning new skills, gaining confidence and finding your purpose.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Is. 43:19
What does it look like to transition your life from fear to growth?
The fear mindset holds us back from living in our God given purpose. It’s where the enemy wants us to stay. If we are distracted by fear, worry and lack of confidence we can’t fulfil the plan God has for our lives. BUT you have the power to choose. You can make the choice to learn new skills that will help you deal with challenges and move on from mistakes. Failing is not a bad thing. Failure is a learning experience and the more that you’re failing the more that you’re growing, and the more confidence you will gain. Learn to set SMART goals for yourself, practice new skills, and walk out your purpose.
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.” Psalm 34:4-5
Change requires action.
Yes, we can (and should) pray for things, but it also takes us listening for God’s direction and stepping out in faith. Getting out of your comfort zone requires you to learn new skills, apply those skills to challenges by working on the problem and thus moving you to a new comfort zone where you feel more confident.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.” John 15:16
If you’re not doing something hard, you’re not growing.
So, what does it look like to have a growth mindset?
1. You desire, and work towards, learning new skills.
2. You aren’t afraid to fail. You view failure as a learning experience.
3. You try new things.
4. You’re teachable. You learn from constructive feedback and are willing to ask questions.
5. You believe that success is dependent upon hard work and effort, not inherent skills.
Quick tips for moving out of your comfort zone:
- Try Something New
- Create Opportunities
- Change Up Your Routine
- Read a Random Book
- Reward Yourself
Remember, you cannot grow in comfort. Comfort can lead to feeling stuck, bored, or discontented. Growth can be hard, but also very rewarding. Your growth and happiness depend only on you. You are the only person who can change your life. Today, choose growth.
