“In order to do anything new in life, we must be willing to leave our comfort zone. That involves taking risks, which can be frightening.  However, each time we leave our comfort zone and conquer new territory, it not only expands our comfort zone but also enlarges us.”

John C. Maxwell

I read the above quote today.  It caught my attention because it highlights some important truths about personal growth and the required steps involved.  First, if we are going to exceed past performance and experiences, we will have to leave our comfort zones.  Athletes understand that they will not get stronger or faster by doing the same workout routine over and over.  Such repetition may help maintain a certain physique but it will not result in growth.

Second, the risks we must take to grow can be intimidating.  This is especially true if we are not in the habit of actively seeking growth.  Nevertheless, when we do leave our comfort zones to grow, we can increase the size of our comfort zones and increase our personal and professional bandwidths.

What roles do comfort and risk play in your personal growth? Do you have any quotes that inform your perspective in this area?

Maxwell, J. (2011). The Five Levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximize Your Potential. New York. Center Street