Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone

I like my comfort zone.  It makes me feel, well, comfortable.  To a certain extent, I know what to expect and how I will react.  I like that.  But, it's important to take those little steps outside of that zone every now and then.  A person like me doesn't have to step far.

 Last night, I had my co-workers over for happy hour.  I know.  Having people over.  Big deal.  But for me, it was a very big deal.  Due to a strange living situation, I was unable to have anyone over to my home for several years.  After buying my own house, I discovered that I had forgotten how to interact with people in my space.  I spent way too much time worrying about details that just don't matter.  I finally took the leap and hosted a gathering.  Those imperfections and the worries in my mind went away.  My house was filled with laughter and conversation.  It was quite a rewarding experience.

Today I spent my day at our local community theatre.  I've spent so many hours there over the past three years, but this was different.  We are in a new building with so many new elements that I know nothing about.  I was unsure about volunteering this time around. I was worried that my limited skills were not enough for the new space.  In many ways, I was right.  Those skills weren't enough.  But 11 hours later, I have new skills.  I even managed to climb up on the grid of wires hanging high above the stage and walk around despite my fear of heights. 

It's amazing how taking even the smallest steps outside my comfort zone can produce such a feeling of confidence.  Those baby steps can be scary, but they can also be empowering.  They challenge you.  They help you figure out what to do when those feelings of fear and anxiety creep into your life, just on a slightly smaller scale.  They are reminders that you really are capable of more than you think. 

So, I'll be taking those positive feelings I've gained from my little venture outside my comfort zone and going to bed.  After all, I'll be preparing a meal and hosting my family at my house tomorrow.

Baby steps?  Yes.  But everyone has to start somewhere.