We all have a comfort zone, a behavioral state in which we feel familiar, at ease, feel safe, and in control. We all strive to get where we are and feel we may seem satisfied but uncertain to achieve more. It is our harbor of contentment. Whenever we are trying anything new, we tend to be held back, afraid to venture out with the unknown. The thought of doing something that we have not done before makes us uncertain, uncomfortable, and defensive. Our mind has a disapproval leaning and meets with anxiety on any attempt to step out of our comfort zone. It is human nature, and humankind has a clinging instinct on what makes us feel safe. Negative images precede where anxiety exists.

The problem of staying in our comfort zone may limit our opportunities. They are dark walls where we confine ourselves and often limit what we are capable of achieving. A boundary that our mind continually defines us not to cross that is born out of fear, afraid of change, afraid to step out and fearful of the unknown. All the possibilities that lie beyond are not seen or considered. It is easier to accept that change is something that happens and destined for other people. Our natural reaction is to withdraw, give up on goals, and usually invent a dozen excuses. Thus we are settling for mediocrity.

Sometimes our choice for mediocrity may also be related to maturity. As we age, we become adapted and comfortable in our ways and hardly take risks. The call of opportunities and challenges may not be as attractive anymore. I hope it will not come to a point where regret will haunt us as we look back someday and wish we could live those years over again and had done things differently.

Embracing CHANGE can present itself as a challenging obstacle and step into the unknown. The realization of their true potential knows no bounds, journey towards their goal, their true calling, and achievement to pursue. They expand their consciousness, configure new perspectives, and conquer fears. They know that taking risks leads to enhancements of self-esteem and self-worth. We usually see and admire this kind of person. They possess something superior.

If there is one thing permanent in this world, it is CHANGE, and everything is in a state of flux. We’ll have to confront this whether we like it or not. The only thing we can do is to adapt if we want to strive for a more fulfilling life and continued progress. However, you may have to manage harder in embracing change and experiment with new ideas. First, it may be akin to walking a tightrope while striving for balance. If we are able and are willing to step outside from our self-made confined walls and step to the unknown places where the magic happens, then we are bound to new opportunities, and success will follow. Our work ethics, commitment, and persistence will determine success when we start entertaining the challenge of opportunities and possibilities. It is our defining moment.

It’s not too late, no matter what our age is, look for that burning desire within us. Let go of the limiting factors and face the situation with the confidence and belief that we are capable of achieving anything. There is no human endeavor that is not possible. If we want to grow as a person and achieve greater things, we should start exploring a whole new world out there. We should be conscious of the limits we have placed upon ourselves. Make small steps towards the wilderness of life, and sure rewards are coming from that experience. You will, in turn, be able to add a new chapter into your life and keep moving. Life is supposed to be easy, fun, and fulfilling. Challenge yourself and test your limits on a new adventure. Keep learning new things to stay motivated. It includes some reading, studying, and activity suggestions that will lead you to confidence and another comfort level. Although not everything is a success story, the experience we’ve learned is an achievement itself. We usually commend our improvements as we accomplish new skills, knowledge, and emotional management, which are associated with our strengths and weaknesses along the way. Thus, we create the wisdom of reference the next time we encounter situations.

The late Stephen R. Covey reminds us, “It takes an enormous amount of internal security, to begin with, the spirit of adventure, the spirit of discovery, and the spirit of creativity. Without a doubt, you have to leave the comfort zone and confront an entirely new and unknown wilderness. You become a trailblazer, a pathfinder. You open new possibilities, new territories, new continents so that others can follow.”