Do you like staying in your comfort zone, especially as you get older? I sure do? For years, I dodged anything that made me uncomfortable – still not a fan.
I have also noticed how much I desire comfort. I’m not talking about sinking into a comfy chair type comfort, but rather:
- Getting to a busy dinner meeting and avoiding people I don’t know
- Navigating a packed business meeting without engaging
- Responding with a quick “no” to speaking opportunities
- Steering clear of shaking hands with nearby folks … it’s easier to just move along
No matter where I go, I hunt for comfort or ways to dodge discomfort altogether. But here’s the challenge I embraced years ago, and I’m passing it on to you: Seek out discomfort. Those nerve-wracking opportunities will help you grow – they will stretch you. You’ll feel it when they come your way, maybe even with a racing heart. The Lord will place you in unexpected places!
As I’ve delved into the “10 Second Rule” book by Clare DeGraaf, I find myself listening more, being prompted by the Holy Spirit to do things … praying for someone on the spot, etc. Are you tuned in?
Every time you push past your comfort zone, you’ll get better at it, sensing the nudge of the Holy Spirit.
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17
Here are some examples:
- The nudge to call that customer who had a rough day yesterday, just to check in
- Sensing you need to accept your neighbor’s dinner invitation, even though you just moved into the neighborhood
- His confirmation you should apologize to a friend for a mistake
- The gentle direction to ask that person you look up to, to spend time with you in a discipling relationship
The outcome might flop, or it might be a huge success. Either way, you’ll gain confidence and chalk it up to experience, enriching your life.
When faced with comfort or discomfort, I try (and urge you) to opt for discomfort, though it’s still tough.
Why? Because you’ll grow, become more courageous, and likely become a better leader and person. Plus, you’ll learn to trust that nudge from the Holy Spirit!
Think and pray
Choose discomfort – that’s where the magic happens! In my experience, it’s how the Lord directs me … if I am listening.
Jay Emory is the President of BancFirst Yukon/Mustang. He has been a financial professional for over 30 years. His stated purpose is to connect with men and women and impact their faith and financial lives through encouragement and connection. He also leads a CBMC Connect3 group at his office in Yukon every Wednesday morning.
