Let’s face it: staying in your comfort zone feels safe, predictable, and, well, comfortable. But here’s the truth—while some great things can happen in your comfort zone, the truly extraordinary things are waiting for you just beyond it. Yes, it’s scary, and yes, it can be uncomfortable, but that's precisely where the magic happens.

Our brains are wired to keep us safe, to avoid pain and seek pleasure. This wiring can sometimes keep us stuck in patterns that don’t serve us, especially as we hit midlife. We often carry limiting beliefs that we’ve held onto for years, beliefs like “I’m just not that kind of person” or “It’s too late for me to change.” But what if I told you that stepping into your discomfort zone is where you’ll find the freedom, strength, and joy you’ve been seeking?

In my coaching program, I see it all the time—women who never thought they’d get healthy again, become strong, manage their finances, or even write a book. But day after day, I watch them crush those limiting beliefs and step into a life they never imagined possible.

Take my own life, for instance. Growing up in a challenging environment, I learned early on that stepping out of my comfort zone was necessary for survival. That experience rewired my brain to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them. Whether it’s in business, relationships, or personal growth, I’ve seen over and over that choosing the discomfort of growth leads to a life I truly love living.

Let me share a recent story that perfectly illustrates this. Last summer, I decided to learn wake surfing. For years, we enjoyed our pontoon boat and jet ski on Cherokee Lake in East Tennessee—God’s country, as I like to call it. But I kept seeing people wake surfing and thought, “Now that looks like fun!” The boat goes slow, about 10-11 miles per hour, so it seemed like a challenge that was doable and exciting.

My husband, Stevie, being the amazing man he is, quickly traded our pontoon boat for a wake surf boat. We spent all last summer trying to figure out how to work the boat and how to actually wakesurf. I face-planted more times than I can count and even ended up with a sinus infection from all the attempts! But guess what? I didn’t give up. This season, after countless tries, I finally dropped the rope and surfed on my own for 37 glorious seconds. It was exhilarating and a testament to the joy that comes from stepping out of your comfort zone.

The truth is, where you are now might not be as comfortable as you think. Maybe you’re struggling with your health, finances, or relationships. That’s uncomfortable too. The question is, do you want the discomfort that comes from staying stuck, or do you want the discomfort that leads to growth, strength, and a more fulfilling life?

When you choose discomfort on purpose, you’re choosing a life that’s full of potential. You learn what you’re made of, build confidence, and discover strengths you didn’t know you had. It’s not about always being brave or fearless; it’s about acknowledging the fear and stepping forward anyway.

 If you like this episode, check out some of our other favorites here:

Ep 167: How to Stay Connected to Your 20 Somethings! 

Ep 176 :What Your Anxiety is Trying to Tell You!

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