By Eun Lee
“As you move outside of your comfort zone, what was once the unknown and frightening becomes your new normal.” — Robin S. Sharma
We all like to stay in our comfort zone. This is where we feel a sense of familiarity, security, and certainty. We know what’s coming next and what to do. There is nothing wrong with being in our comfort zones until we get too comfortable and start holding back instead of challenging ourselves to try new things, learn and grow. As we get older and learn to fear failure, we start holding back and attempting fewer new things. But how can we evolve in our lives and careers if we only stick to routines and what we know? When we step outside of our comfort zone, we are taking a risk and exposing ourselves to potential stress and anxiety. A little anxiety can push us to perform our best and there is no learning without some level of difficulty.
The impacts of COVID-19 had us in fear and uncertainty. Teachers had to push for a more innovative approach in delivering quality education and engage students virtually. Parents and students had to get familiar with video calls and various online platforms to continue learning. Adapting to changes in life and responding to life’s uncertainties determine our growth. The pandemic has forced us to embrace challenges and rethink the way to work and live. As we have endured, we can continue to be willing to take risks and let the uncomfortable become an opportunity to reshape the way we move forward.