Get out of your comfort zone!

Written by Hayley Strawbridge - Founder of Love From You

Growing up on a lifestyle property in rural New Zealand was a privilege, something I probably took advantage of at the time. However, as a teenager on a quest to ‘find myself’, I felt cut-off from the world (oh, how things change later in life where living in the country is a dream of mine!).

One day I had a conversation with my mum that truly changed my perspective, and it still sticks with me to this day. ‘Mum, I’m bored’ I would say. By the fourth or fifth time, mum lightheartedly replied ‘well, maybe you’re just boring’. Now, although I may have been upset initially, I quickly realised that she was speaking my truth. The ‘truth’ made me question the way I was viewing my world. I was ‘bored’ because I was restricting myself to my comfort zone and subsequently filling my mind with negative thoughts. I was stuck and needed a push to get out of my comfort zone.

I started to question myself. What did I need to do to make my life one that I love and enjoy? Were there certain hobbies I wanted to try? What skills did I want to learn to build towards a future career? I instantly felt inspired. I started to write lists (there were so many lists, and still are today!) and I started a journal. I realised the only thing stopping me from what I wanted in life was me! So, I took control. Suddenly my dreams and passions became more vivid and realistic. I was excited about my future!

From that day on whenever I start to feel ‘bored’ it reminds me that I need to push myself out of my comfort zone. No matter how uncomfortable or scary it might make me feel, I know it’s a great idea.