We all want to grow, and we are all planning to achieve more in life, but the problem is that we are not ready to pay the price it takes to grow. Maybe there is something little we are enjoying or benefiting from in our comfort zone, so leaving that comfort behind becomes difficult. Many people remain there until it becomes too late, and “had I known” becomes the order of the day.
A comfort zone is a mental state where a person feels relaxed, safe, and in control. Within this zone, one feels secure and rarely faces stress or anxiety. It is a familiar environment that requires no new effort, risk, or challenge. However, stepping outside your comfort zone means daring to try something different, engaging in activities that may seem difficult or uncertain, and being open to experiences that push you beyond your limits. It is in this space that true growth and self-discovery often happen.
I remember a story my barber shared the other day. He is very good at what he does. He told us how he decided to learn barbing while still living with his parents in the village, enjoying free food and other benefits at home, so he was somewhat afraid of leaving his comfort zone.
According to him, he later traveled to stay with his elder brother, but during the first week, he did not enjoy it because he could not eat to his satisfaction, and there were many restrictions on his movement. He said he eventually went back home to continue staying with his parents. After a month, his parents insisted that he return to the city. At that point, he realized they were serious, so he went back and began learning barbing. He narrated that his boss never cared about his welfare, which was very annoying. Even when he was hungry, his boss did not care. But one thing that kept him motivated was the fact that he had left his comfort behind to learn. He endured every challenge, completed his training, and today, he is one of the best barbers in town. This is the result of leaving comfort behind.
