5 Things That Happened When I Stepped Out of My Comfort Zone
I’ve been meaning to write this post for a while, and I’m finally sharing the 5 things that happened when I stepped out of my comfort zone.
One of the things that I’ve been challenging myself to do this year is to step out of my comfort zone. Most people are surprised when I say this, but I’m a pretty shy and reserved person by nature. It definitely doesn’t come naturally for me to approach people, and I DO NOT like being the center of attention.
I’ve always been the type to shy away from situations that will make me uncomfortable, or that might result in my humiliating myself. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started to care less about what other people think. It’s been a few months since I started doing things that I normally would have avoided before, and these are the 5 things that have happened:
1. I’ve met some amazing people
I’m usually not the type of person who reaches out to strangers, but social media has made this a lot easier. In the last few months, I’ve met fellow mamas who are some of the sweetest and most supportive people I know. I’ve met photographers, hair stylists, designers, business owners and graphic artists who are ridiculously talented. Knowing what my strengths are has also helped me recognize what my weaknesses are, and it’s been so much fun connecting with people who excel in fields that I’m not the best in.
2. I’ve gotten so many opportunities
No one is going to just come and hand you opportunities, so it’s necessary to step out of your comfort zone to make things happen. So many moms message me on Instagram asking how I get so many collaborations, or how I get companies to notice me. The short answer is that I’m not afraid to reach out to companies or other people that I think would be a good fit. In putting myself out there more, I have also had so many great companies contact me about working together. Some of these opportunities have led to longer term partnerships because I have had a unique opinion and perspective that I’ve voiced to these companies.
3. I’m happier
I was pretty miserable at my old job, but like most people I was afraid to leave. I was afraid of the unknown, and I really didn’t even know what I wanted to do. My new job has the best work environment, and I’m pretty sure I work with some of the nicest people on the planet. It was scary coming into a brand new field that I had no experience in, and I’ve been pushed out of my comfort zone countless times since I’ve been here. Being in such a nice environment on a daily basis has made me so much happier overall, and that has helped every area of my life.
4. I’ve found something that I’m passionate about
If I would have never made the decision to step out of my comfort zone, I never would have discovered how passionate I am about being a creator. I did go to fashion school, but I pushed all of that to the side after becoming a mom. Starting this blog, and working with companies has allowed me to incorporate my passions for fashion, photography and community. I recently mentioned how important it is to be passionate about your side hustle, and I finally found something that lights me up.
5. I’m more confident
I’ve mentioned it before in my post about mom guilt, but I definitely let motherhood consume me. It was so hard to be confident because I didn’t even know who I was anymore. There’s something about stepping out of your comfort zone (and realizing that you survived) that is a great confidence booster. In finding myself, and pushing myself to do things I wouldn’t typically do I’ve become more confident in myself and my abilities.
I hope you guys enjoyed this post, and that you feel encouraged to step out of your comfort zone!
Also, these photos were taken by the Laurel of LPK Photo. She is absolutely amazing, and her work can also be found on her Instagram.
84 Comments
Juli
OH my I can so relate to this and I know the feeling. Way to go.
admin
I’m glad you can relate!! Thank you!! 🙂
Lisa
This speaks to me!! I am such a shy person trying to run a small business, a blog and a youtube channel. This is giving me the encouragement to keep pushing and not to be afraid to ask questions! Thank you for the inspiring read!
admin
Wow that’s awesome! You’re braver than I am by having a Youtube channel! It can definitely be done even if you’re shy! You got this girl! I’m so glad it was helpful 🙂
Tal
Great post! I’m an introvert so I am always trying to do things out of my comfort zone!
admin
Thank you! I’m on the border of being an introvert/extrovert so it’s definitely more challenging but so worth it!
Jordy@OperationJordyn
I love these! I have been really working on stepping out of my comfort zone so it is nice to be reminded that the struggle is totally worth it.
admin
Thank you!! You got this girl!! It’s definitely worth it!
D K Marley
Cool thoughts!
admin
Thank you!
Azzama
I am glad you found what you love and especially love the fact that you are inspiring others to step out of their comfort zone.
admin
Thank you so much! It’s made such a huge difference for me that I wanted to share my experience with others!
Kiala
I’ve found that when I step out of my comfort zone I’m always pleased with the outcome. Good for you!
admin
I couldn’t agree more!! Thank you!!
Tawnya
Thank you for sharing. Very inspirational!
admin
Of course! I’m glad you were inspired by it!
Lawrence Hamilton
Stepping out of my comfort zone is a must. I like the idea of trying new things. And as you said, you have to go to the opportunities, not the other way around!
admin
Yes exactly!! You’ll never regret going after something you want!
Leah
It is so important to push the limits of your comfort zone but that is so much easier said than done. I’m glad that you were able to share real takeaways to prove it really is beneficial. I need to work on reaching out more. I can let insecurity make me feel like I shouldn’t reach out or put myself out there. Thanks for encouraging me to do it anyway!
admin
I totally understand where you’re coming from! I was always scared to step out of my comfort zone until recently. When you start seeing it pay off I promise it gets easier!
Kaylene
This is a great post! I often struggle with pushing myself out of my comfort zone. Thank you for the motivation!
admin
Thank you so much! I’m so glad it was helpful! I struggle with it too, but the more you do it the easier it gets!
Gina
LOVE your photos! And you are so right, we all really need to be brave and get comfortable with being uncomfortable sometimes.
admin
Thank you so much!! It can be scary but it’s so worth it!
Navneet
You sure have a great styling sense and yes stepping out of the comfort zone can have a great impact on our outlook and of course us, it can do wonders!!
admin
Aww thank you so much! I couldn’t agree more! It’s definitely life changing!
Joe A
Such great advice on a topic many of us can relate to. Thank you
admin
Thank you so much! I’m glad you can relate!
Joanne
I love this post! So easy to fall in to daily life and be a robot! Being recently separated I am now working hard at stepping out of my comfort zone and starting to live again!
Thanks for sharing!
admin
Thank you! I can’t even imagine how difficult that must be! That’s amazing that you’re working on stepping out of your comfort zone!! you’re doing a great job!
Jenn Pohlman
Thank you so much for sharing this – it’s so motivating! I am horrible about getting stuck in a routine, and that routine is comfort – you know? Switching it up, stretching myself and discovering new parts of me or things I’m interested in is something I need to put more focus on, and this post is motivation to do so! xoxo
admin
Omg yess! I’m so big on routines too but it makes it so easy to get stuck in a rut! It can be scary but stepping out of your comfort zone opens the door to so many possibilities! I’m so glad this post was helpful for you! 🙂
Liz
Love your photography here and it’s so true what you said. Putting yourself out there really helps grab attention of brands that want to work with your style! It can be super challenging as an introvert so great job.
admin
Thanks so much! I have an awesome photography who helped my vision come to life! I completely agree! THanks so much!
Susie Whittenberger
To step out of my comfort zone, I began taking improv classes. I think I want to take writing classes next! Good post with great pics!
admin
Wow that’s awesome! Good for you!!! I’ve been wanting to take a writing class too! Thanks so much!
Chelsae
This is so relatable for me! I have always been so afraid of trying something new (I’m also a shy person and I hate failing). Starting my blog was a big step for me and has really shown me so many other possibilities. I love how much you’ve learned and hearing about your experience.
admin
I’m so glad! I am the exact same way!! Great job on starting your blog! I know it’s not easy! Stepping out of your comfort zone really opens the door to so many possibilities!
Erica
This is really great inspiration to get out and do something new. I know too many people that get trapped in their bubble…including myself. It’s such a great self-improvement and learning experience to get out of your comfort zone!
Stephanie
THIS! I could totally relate to all of the above. It is so hard to get out of your comfort zone but great things happen when you do, especially getting rid of the mom guilt and really giving yourself permission to be whoever you want to be.
Marie Novak
Thanks for this post! I’ve always been some what of an introvert. That’s partially why I got into blogging. I wanted to get my kids out into the world and be active participants rather than watching from the sidelines. I push myself everyday to talk and interact with new people. It is amazing how much I’ve come to enjoy it!
admin
I’m so glad you enjoyed this post! That such a great reason to step out of your comfort zone! I’ve really started enjoying it too! You’re doing a great job mama!
Sarah
This is such a relatable post. I, too, have struggled with stepping out of my comfort zone, although I am leaps and bounds from where I was when I had my first kiddo (nine short years ago). It is SO EASY for motherhood to consume us and the mom guilt struggle is all too real. I’ve been known to return a $3 bottle of nail polish due to mom guilt — haha! A few years ago I had a blog but let it go due to… well, life. I just started blogging again, recently, and I’m so glad to have something that is all my own. Terrific post, momma!
admin
I’m so glad you can relate!! That is exactly how I felt too. Mom guilt can be so consuming, and it’s definitely easy to let motherhood consume you. We have to remember that we’re also women who have goals and passions. Good luck on your blog mama you got this! What is your blog link?
Rosey
Love this! You are an inspiration. I also have started getting out of my comfort zone and it’s amazing the connections you can make. You’re right – we have to create our own opportunities and it all starts with putting ourselves out there. This made my day, thanks for sharing!
admin
You are so sweet! Your comment made my day! Great job on stepping out of your comfort zone! It’s amazing how many doors it can open isn’t it?? Thank you for reading, I’m so glad it was helpful! 🙂
Jamie
Totally agree with you! When you step out of your comfort zone magic happens!!
admin
Yess I’m so glad you agree! Thanks for reading!
Jen
This is amazing. Great things happen when we put ourselves out there. You should be proud! Great post.
admin
Yess definitely! Thank you so much that’s so sweet! I’m glad you enjoyed it 🙂
Nana
I love this! I’m such a perfectionist so I find myself beating myself up a lot. I need to take up these pointers
admin
I can be the same way! Sometimes you just need to go for it and stop stressing about the small insignificant things!
Spaska
I couldn’t agree more. Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.
admin
Yess exactly!!
Melissa
I can relate to how you felt. For me, it was scary and uncomfortable situation first then I realized it made me feel free and happier. Excellent job, Keep it up!
admin
Yess exactly! It’s so rewarding in the long run!
Centbuzz
Can definitely relate & learn something new today. I need to express myself more and reach out
admin
I’m glad I’m not alone! You’ll be glad when you do it! Good luck!
Kat
This is great. Good for you doing this. It is so hard to step out of your comfort zone, but so rewarding once you do!
admin
Thanks so much! it’s definitely worth it in the long run!
Olivia
I agree with you, sometimes you have to just go and do it! I always think if I don’t want to do something thats the exact reason I should!
admin
Yess exactly! I always say make like nike and just do it! haha
Nikki
I’m a SUPER shy and introverted person as well. Like guys, I have mini panic attacks when I have to make phone calls. My heart pounds and my hands shake… and if I ever need to confront someone… forget it. I’m a mess. It’s a huge block for me, and I am working hard on over coming it.
admin
I can totally relate!! I’ve definitely come out of my shell over the years, but it’s a process. You got this girl!
KJ
It takes courage and determination to step out of your comfort zone, but there are often treasures waiting to be found in the unknown. Thanks for sharing!
admin
I couldn’t agree more!! Thanks for reading!
carissa
Getting out of your comfort zone is exactly where the best things begin!
admin
Yess exactly!!
Kayla
So glad to hear that you’re happier now! Congrats on making the leap outside your comfort zone, it’s always worth it. I also have to say that I love the photos you’ve used in this post, super cute!
admin
Thank you so much! It’s definitely worth it! Thanks!! They’re some of my favs!
Sam
Sam -Thiswaymommy.com
What an awesome blog post! I am so happy for you that you are doing something that you enjoy – that I think is one of the secrets to happiness in life.
admin
Thank you so much!! It really makes such a huge difference in every part of your life when you’re doing something you enjoy!
Kayla
Such a great list! Happy to see all that you’ve accomplished from stepping out of your comfort zone! I too went away from my comfort zone and reached out to companies! I had great success as well (:
admin
Thank you so much!Good for you!! I’m so happy for you girl!
anshul
I never thought about the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and what all changes it will bring to my life. Thanks for sharing this informative post.
admin
I never thought about it either until I actually did it! Thanks for reading 🙂
Dana
You are my #goals, mama! You can tell what a hard worker you are! Thanks for the encouragement to put myself out there, it’s exactly what I needed to hear ❤️
admin
Thank you so much! You made my day!! I’m so glad it was helpful! You got this girl!
Amanda G
I relate to this post a lot. I was always really shy and a huge introvert, until my husband talked me into going to conventions with him and dressing up in costume for them. Once I did, I found it was much easier to feel like I belonged and make new friends. Believe it or not, but it actually boosted my confidence enough to join a modeling group in my area and now I do themed photoshoots and the friends I’ve made at conventions at these photoshoots are some of the best friends I’ve ever had.
admin
I’m so glad you can relate! That is SO awesome! Stepping out of your comfort zone can make such a huge difference. I’m so happy for you!
Jody
This is a really inspiring and motivating read. Thank you for brightening my day and giving me a confidence boost. I have just set up a blog after years of putting it off due to thinking nobody would want to know but other bloggers like yourself have gave me the confidence to just put myself out there and even if nobody reads it I enjoy writing them! Thank you!
admin
Hi Jody! I’m so glad to hear that! Hearing that this post was helpful for you made my day! Great job on starting your blog! I would love to check it out! What is it called?
Itisreal.net
Well done for being bold enough to step out of your comfort zone! Onwards and upwards!
admin
Thank you so much!