Each day, I try to do at least one thing that gets me out of my comfort zone.
Being uncomfortable helps bring growth. Being comfortable for long periods of time typically brings stagnation.
I have a habit of getting into routines so anytime I can be spontaneous, it allows me to mix things up. Injecting these random activities or events into a seemingly repetitive day-to-day grind can not only help you grow but see things from a new perspective.
Change helps inspire. It also creates opportunities that may not have been present.
Routines and habits are easy to fall into because they allow you to go through life on autopilot. You do not have to focus on what is coming next because the routine has become like muscle memory. You already know what is coming next because you have already done it 1,000 times before.
When you get out of your comfort zone, the unknown becomes amplified. You do not know what to expect since this is something new or not something you do regularly. Personally, getting out of your comfort zone does not have to be an elaborate or extravagant event. It can be something small or subtle that acts as a catalyst for something bigger.
I also recognize that we do not need to be out of our comfort zone all of the time. That would be exhausting and would likely lead to burnout. It is all about balance and becoming comfortable while also pushing ourselves to do new things.
Joe Gullo