Is staying in your comfort zone and fear of failure stopping you from achieving more?
We’ve all heard the saying. It’s likely we’ve been told this when times get tough or we feel uncertain about something we’re working towards. Breaking down the saying “Stepping out of your comfort zone” means doing something that makes you feel uncomfortable and is away from your normal routine. But as the famous saying goes:
“You never change your life until you step out of your comfort zone; change begins at the end of your comfort zone.”
― Roy T. Bennett
Remaining passive and reluctant to push yourself to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable means you likely won’t see results you’re hoping for – this reads very true when it comes to fitness and overall health.
Now there’s nothing wrong with sticking to workouts that you trust and enjoy but once in a while, it’s a good idea to step outside of your fitness comfort zone and try something different, something that will push you harder than before. Not only will it change up your routine, but it can improve your motivation and stop you from hitting a nasty fitness plateau.
How to break out of your comfort zone
Ever walked past a cardio class and thought to yourself “I could do that?” or seen another gym member use the TRX system and wanted to give it a go? Well, nothings stopping you other than fear or maybe even laziness.
When it’s put like that it sounds simple, doesn’t it? So why haven’t you signed up yet? Is fear stopping you from giving something a go?
Commit to taking action my making smaller, manageable changes; drinking more water, setting yourself a daily movement task or even joining a fitness class you’ve never been confident enough to sign up to.
Don’t fear trying something different
Many of us will stick to what we know because of a fear of failing at something new. But, that risk shouldn’t be what’s holding you back.
Past failures and struggles make pushing yourself a real challenge, that’s for sure. But the notion that if it’s important enough to you, you’ll find a way and if not, you’ll find an excuse – is what we see in a lot of people who lack motivation but desire to improve.
If fear of failure is what’s stopping you from doing something or trying something new, then perhaps your goals and expectations are too high and unachievable. Are you setting yourself up to fail in the first place?
Don’t try to jump out of your comfort zone, you’ll likely become overwhelmed and jump back in. We encourage all clients to take small steps towards the fear they’re trying to overcome. “Baby steps” will help you to achieve your goals at a quicker rate.
Stepping out of your comfort can look different to everyone but ultimately having the confidence to do so, means you can take your workouts up a notch, whether it’s attending a new class, trying a new machine, lifting heavier weights, or adding in another round of reps.
As you slowly push past your comfort zone you’ll feel more at ease with the new workouts and you never know, that one class you’ve been scared to go to might just be the best thing that ever happened to you…
So what are you waiting for? Get out there!
