Jake and Penny

I know that we all have a clear understanding of the value of working outside of our comfort zones.  We know that growth happens when we engage in activities that aren’t familiar to us.  I even read recently that it is important as we age to challenge our brains by learning new skills. I guess that’s helpful to those of us who are getting older….

Recently, I started a part-time job on the weekends.  I’m working in a new environment, a different management style, new information, set hours.  It’s all very stressful.  I’m surprised at how stressful it really is and even more so I’m surprised at generally how unsupported I’ve felt.  Most people have shrugged it off.  They say things like “I’m sure it will all be ok after you’ve done it a few times.”  ” You are smart, it can’t be that hard.”  “Relax.”  My reaction was “gee, it sounds like you haven’t done anything like this in awhile….”

Some questions to ponder:  Can we recently identify with the stress, anxiety that’s involved with doing something new?  If we can’t, maybe it’s time to push ourselves outside of our own zone.  Are we acknowledging strongly enough the effort that it takes and the emotions that can be associated with comfort zone work?  Are we consistently giving our employees/friends/family a chance to articulate the effort that is really required? Are we really listening?

Just some thoughts from someone way outside her zone….

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