I’m going to bet that most of you have a daily routine; I know I do. My day consists of waking up, getting ready, driving to and from work (with work in between), resting, and then getting ready to do it all again the next day. Having a routine is a comfortable feeling, so why would anyone want to change and do something that scares them? Unfortunately, when we become too comfortable and the resistance to change kicks in, the ability to grow, improve, and reach for new goals comes to a standstill.
So how can you start changing and growing into the person you dream to be? You have to start by stepping out of your comfort zone; which then starts a chain reaction. You’ll start by gaining new experiences, which leads to learning, which then leads to gathering all of the vital puzzle pieces that will help you achieve your new goals.
I know what you’re thinking; easier said than done, right? Change can be scary, but it is also rewarding. I have found success in stepping out of my own comfort zone by following the tips below.
- Establish your goals. Use the SMART method when determining your goals. Ensuring that your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely will set you up for success. Not only will this process help clarify your vision and remind you of your priorities, but it will also help move you forward to your end result.
- Don’t do it alone; have a mentor. Not sure where to start? Find a mentor to share your aspirations with. They will understand what they need to do to help push you in the right direction. You will thank them eventually; even if you don’t understand it now.
- Challenge yourself: Don’t just choose the easy option; try pushing yourself to do something you might not normally do. You will find that it will be rewarding because it encourages your personal growth and promotes self-understanding.
- See failure as a teacher. When you are doing something new, you will make mistakes. The important thing is to not get discouraged. Learn from your mistakes and before you know it, it’ll become the new norm.
- Just jump in. Looking for something a little riskier, try just going for it. The worst thing anyone can ever tell you is no. Whether you’re debating on applying for that HR Manager job, asking for a raise, or trying to get approval for the next HR conference, just go for it. You will never know unless you try.
- Lather, Rinse, and Repeat. Remember, you will never stop learning. Once you have seen one goal through, set another. You should always be working on something.
Everything we go through is meant to teach us an important lesson. Your first lesson: there is no better time than now to ditch that routine and step out of your comfort zone. Are you ready for it?
Amanda Brunson is employed as a People Business Partner by Sabre. Amanda has been an active volunteer with SHRM since 2014 in many capacities, including President of the Rollins SHRM Student Chapter, Director on the Greater Orlando SHRM Board, HR FL Conference Committee Member, and SHRM Young Professional Advisory Council (YPAC) member.
Amanda received her Master in Human Resources Degree from Rollins College in May 2016. She holds an Advanced Leadership and Management Certificate from West Virginia University at Parkersburg. Most recently, Amanda obtained her SHRM-CP certification in January 2018.
Amanda is passionate about advocating for the Future of HR. She does this by sharing her knowledge and experience to aid others in attaining their goals.
Amanda currently resides in Orlando, Florida and enjoys bowling, visiting the beach, and visiting Walt Disney World in her spare time.
Connect with her on LinkedIn and on Twitter, @TheHRPanda
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