Astonishing Results

Astonishing results occur when you step out of your comfort zone.

Think about it. How often do you take the same route to work or from work? I’d be willing to bet that you travel the same streets and freeways ninety-five percent of the time. In fact, you probably travel the same routes to and from so often that you don’t even notice the individual cars and buildings along the way.

A week or so ago, I decided to step out of my comfort zone to attend a 7:30 AM book study group. This book study is unique in two ways – you need only show up for one meeting, and you don’t have to read the book. The reason you don’t have read the book is that someone else handles that and then provides a summary of the most important concepts. (This is my kind of book study.)

The book study also provides an opportunity to meet and connect with people that you might not have met in other situations. Because I stepped out and tried something new, I received an invitation to participate in the host’s upcoming podcast. This is something I’ve been wanting to do.

When we do the same thing day in and day-out we establish patterns. Those repeating patterns make us feel safe and comfortable because they are familiar. But think about this. Staying in the same pattern, playing it safe, could be holding you back — keeping you from experiencing something new and exciting? It could be keeping you from achieving greater heights?

Where in your life do need to step out a little more? Is it at work? Have you been wanting to learn something new, do a different job? Maybe you’d like to step out in your self-expression. Like learning to express yourself through art, dance, or music. Have you ever considered auditioning for the cast of a play?

Stepping out can be scary. Here are five ways to expand your awareness without taking a giant leap into the unknown.

1. Change your route to and from work
2. Purchase and read a magazine from an industry other than your own
3. Attend a networking event and strike up a conversation with just one person
4. Go to lunch at a restaurant you have never been to before
5. Rearrange the furniture in your workspace or home

Simple actions like these can result in astonishing results. Try implementing a couple of them to see what can occur for you. You will likely be astonished.

Ta ta for now.