Monday, April 18, 2011

IS YOUR “COMFORT ZONE” REALLY THAT COMFORTABLE?


Why is it that when we’re told to do something that will be beneficial to us, and accept it to be true, that oftentimes we choose to avoid it? The voice that only we can hear tells us that we’ll start… someday.  We’re told that by eating lighter portions of our favorite foods and exercising on a regular basis that we’ll lose weight, build stronger muscles and live longer. Countless books are written stating that our financial freedom depends on spending less and saving more.  So, I’m wondering, why are we not following the advice of others and eating healthier, exercising more or saving money?  The answer is simple: Being comfortable in our current lifestyle, and changing the aforementioned habits at a root level means changing our comfort zones and most of us are not ready to do just that.

 Why not?

Uncertainty.  Every day we face uncertainty, uncertainty to move forward because some level of fear of the unknown inhibits us from seeing the bigger picture.  We need to constantly remind ourselves that where we want to be and who we want to become is going to be our reality, so long as we work at making it so.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s definitely hard work and requires a considerable amount of self-discipline but, isn’t that what’s great about creating your own self-fulfilling prophecy and doing the things you really want to do?  Ruben Gonzalez, author of The Courage To Succeed, wrote “every success you’ve ever had or will ever have is the product of your courage to act and the courage to endure.” 

Do you want to watch life go by sitting on the sidelines?  I don’t!  I wasn’t raised to believe that something is too good for me-with that mentality I’ll always find ways not to do my best or quit.  I was raised to reach for the stars, and I know I’ll attain them.  Like I said, it’s tough at times but I imagine what I want and I try to create the lifestyle that looks just like what I’ve imagined; even when it rides up against my current comfort zone. There are things that I want to accomplish and I have already made up my mind that I’m not settling for less.  Why would you?  I want to stay healthy and eat better (a constant challenge) so I get out of bed, caffeine deprived, and drive my sleepy self to the gym.  Not everyday, but I know my ultimate goal and I do what it takes to get it done. 

I wish you the greatest success and hope you look at life in a way that constantly challenges your comfort zone so you can achieve the greatness that life can provide.