Comfort Zones

 

A few months ago, after years of planning and contemplation, I decided to leave my secure government job in the hopes of becoming a successful entrepreneur.  It was one of the hardest decisions I had ever made. I was completely immersed in my comfort zone and could have very easily stayed within the confines I had created and lived a good life. However, I have always felt the strong desire to work for myself and to try and build something from scratch and watch it grow. 

As a result of feeling societal pressures as well as those from family and friends, I had put off this desire of mine for far too long. It was time to escape the comfort zone I had established over the years and venture out on to my own to see what I could create. I approached this change in a methodical way. My planning first started years ago when it became clear to me that I could not reach my potential or goals within the company for which I worked. Instead of simply quitting, I took it upon myself to purchase and invest in some rental properties in order to secure my financial well being. At the time, I did not make it known to my family and friends but this was the start of my new life. I would be lying to you if I said it was easy because it was far from that. I was working full time while completely renovating two homes while trying to maintain relationships with family and friends. I would routinely work 90 hour weeks and, over time, it took both a physical and emotional toll. Regardless, for the first time in my life, I felt like I was in control and I absolutely loved it!

I have always felt confident in my abilities but hesitant to fully explore them due to the safety and security I had established through my employment, relationships et cetera. It was truly an eye opening experience for me as I was unlocking my true potential and it felt incredible. I had never felt more like myself and my confidence was growing. To reflect on what I had accomplished with no experience in construction had proved to me that I could conquer whatever obstacles I may face. I put my heart and soul into the two projects I took on last year and that experience confirmed for me that I could make it on my own. If I had never left my comfort zone, I would never have unlocked my potential.

I have never felt happier than I have in the last two years. Of course there are days where I think about the decisions I have made and question whether I am on the right path. Ultimately, I am living my life on my own terms and for that I am happy. I am no longer chasing money; instead I am chasing my dreams. I often revert to my old way of thinking and acting; at those times, I have to remind myself of how far I have come on this crazy journey of life. I know I have the potential to make a difference in the world and must work towards achieving my goals. I would never be able to bring my visions to fruition if I had stayed on the path I had previously created. I routinely tell myself, what is the worst that could happen? I am either going to succeed or I am going to learn; both are crucial towards my personal development. I will continue to follow the path less traveled and explore life beyond my comfort zone. This is where I will unlock the potential I have within.

“Most people live within the confines of their comfort zone. The best thing you can do for yourself is regularly move beyond it. This is the way to lasting personal mastery and to realize the true potential of your human endowments”

– Robin Sharma