In a recent podcast episode, I threw out a question that got me thinking: Can you handle discomfort? Sounds weird, right? I mean, our instincts tell us to avoid discomfort at all costs. We’re wired to play it safe and steady, preferring to keep things just the way they are. It’s our biological homeostasis switch kicking in, ensuring we stay comfy and survive. But here’s the kicker: sticking to comfort zones doesn’t get us far. The secret to growth is actually flipping this script.
Want to grow? Then you’ve got to do things that make you squirm a bit. So, I gotta ask: What are you doing to shake things up? What steps are you taking to ensure you’re not stuck in the same spot next year? If we’re not moving forward, we’re losing the game.
Here’s a little story for you. I just invested in a basketball club that my kids are part of. I’m teaming up with three other coaches who are getting their first taste of business ownership. I challenged them, and myself, not to make any unnecessary personal purchases until the club starts turning a profit. Now, to be real, I’ve done this dance before, with multiple successful ventures. I could easily sit back, but I’m choosing not to.
I’m jumping back into the ring with the guys, matching their discomfort step for step. So, no new Jordans for me for a while, even though I’m a sneaker-head who’s nuts about them. I know it sounds trivial and hardly qualifies as ‘discomfort’, but it’s my way of staying connected with the struggle.