Like most animals, humans naturally dwell in their comfort zones. In extreme weather, it’s nice to stay at home. Lunch with an old friend feels easier than a meal with someone new. And we feel most capable when we’re doing familiar work over which we have a sense of mastery.
When the opportunity arises, we can thrive outside the comfort zone. But we rarely seek such experiences out; we usually require a push to get there.In WHO MOVED MY CHEESE, author Spencer Johnson recommends voluntarily venturing outside your comfort zones, whatever they may be, at least once in a while.
Go ahead, volunteer for that challenging new project at work. Try a new restaurant instead of going to the same old place. Spend time with people who you might not, as a matter of course, interact with. These little adventures will pay off handsomely if a big change is ever foisted upon you. If you suddenly need to move, say, or find a new job, you’ll be more familiar with the new terrain. For more advice on work and life, check out our Instaread on WHO MOVED MY CHEESE.
