Is This Summer the Time to Move Beyond Your Cozy Comfort Zone?

LJW
Oct 29, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Jun 14

Lately, a few friends have been repeating the old adage: “Time is short.” And honestly? It’s true. Every birthday reminds me how quickly the years pass. With age, I’ve found it easier to say no—to things that take effort, that stretch me, that feel even slightly uncomfortable. And yet, in playing it safe, I’ve also watched some really great moments pass me by.

Have you ever skipped an outing with friends just because you didn’t feel like getting in the car? Or stayed home in comfy clothes instead of checking out that art show, camper show, or concert? Maybe you’ve declined an invitation because mingling felt like too much, or because the comfort zone just felt safer.

We all do this in subtle ways. We stop reaching out. We sit instead of joining the class. We scroll instead of showing up. But here’s the question: What are we missing when we keep choosing cozy over connection?

When my book was published, I thought the hard part was over. But then came the part where people needed to know it existed—and everything about self-promotion made my stomach turn. I hired a publicist (thankfully!), only to find that while he lined up great opportunities, I had to be the one to show up. I gave talks, approached bookstores, did podcasts, and even appeared on TV—all while quietly whining to my husband how uncomfortable all of it made me feel.

But something beautiful happened: I met fascinating people. I heard kind feedback. And I realized my book was encouraging people. That never would’ve happened if I had stayed tucked away.

We can apply this to so many things—making new friends, finding a new job, trying anything new. All of it requires one brave thing: a nudge outside the comfort zone. Not a leap. A nudge.

So, if “time is short,” what do you want to be braver about?

A few ideas on how to start:

Change the story in your head.
When your brain says, “This is too hard,” stop and reframe. Say, “I’ll go for a little while,” or “I’ll try one small step.” Start tiny.
Say yes before you say no.
Next time an opportunity shows up, pause before saying anything. Try to say yes to dipping your toe in, even if it’s just for 20 minutes. Let the “yes” come quicker than the “maybe later.”
Keep the comfort, too.
You’re not giving up your cozy home. You’re just borrowing courage for a bit. You get to return whenever you want.
Go knock if no one knocks.
Not every opportunity will land in your lap or come to you. Sometimes you need to explore, research, ask. You could be the one that initiates an invite for coffee or brunch at the café down the street.

Time really is short. But it's also wide enough for wonderful new experiences—if we’re willing to step out of the comfort zone just a little. This summer, you don’t need to change your whole life. You just need to begin.