Today’s prompt a fish out of water: : someone who is uncomfortable in a particular situation
Feeling like a fish out of water surely isn’t a nice feeling. But don’t you think there are times when we have to push ourselves out of the water – and consciously experience that feeling? Pushing yourself out of the water, the water of your comfort zone, is going to make you uncomfortable, but I promise you, it’s a good thing to do.
If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try — Seth Godin
A Fish Out Of Water : Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
I’ve stepped out of the water several times and as scary as it has been, I’ve always learnt a lot. I’ve learnt about my own strengths and weaknesses. I’ve had some great experiences with new people and new places. I’ve met some horrible people and had some sad experiences. But at the end of the day, I can look back and say, ‘I’m glad I stepped out of the water!’.
If you don’t you’re going to be like that old dog that a traveller spotted sitting next to the old farmer who kept rocking away while the dog howled in pain. The traveller couldn’t help asking what the dog was crying about, “Sir, why is your dog howling so much?”.
The farmer said, “He’s lying on a nail.”
“So why doesn’t he get up?”
“It doesn’t hurt him bad enough to get up. It’s just enough for him to moan and groan.”
I’ve heard loads of people moaning and groaning about the situations they are in – low-paying jobs, not getting the recognition they deserve, bad relationships…. an endless litany of woes. You ask them why they don’t quit and they talk about security, ‘the known devil’ and a host of other crap reasons for not getting out.
Here’s a poem by an unknown writer about the comfort zone.
The Comfort Zone
I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I wouldn’t fail.
The same four walls and busywork were really more like jail.
I longed so much to do the things I’d never done before,
But stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.
I said it didn‘t matter that I wasn’t doing much.
I said I didn’t care for things like commission checks and such.
I claimed to be so busy with the things inside the zone,
But deep inside I longed for something special of my own.
I couldn’t let my life go by just watching others win.
I held my breath; I stepped outside and let the change begin.
I took a step and with new strength I’d never felt before,
I kissed my comfort zone goodbye and closed and locked the door.
If you’re in a comfort zone, afraid to venture out,
Remember that all winners were at one time filled with doubt.
A step or two and words of praise can make your dreams come true.
Reach for your future with a smile; Success is there for you!
The comfort zone is the great enemy to creativity; moving beyond it necessitates intuition, which in turn configures new perspectives and conquers fears. – Dan Stevens
I invite you to read Michael Hyatt’s post : Why frequent trips outside your comfort zone are so important.
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True words, Corinne. If you want success, one should step out of his comfort zone. Loved the story of the dog and the poem on comfort zone. Thanks for sharing.
Stepping out of the water is super hard for me! But, as you rightly pointed out it’s the stepping out that makes you shine!
Truer words have never been spoken Corinne. IT get suffocating at times to stay in the comfort zone and as you said, it’s an enemy for creativity. Thanks for sharing that lovely poem!
I’ve learned the truth of “if it scares you, it is worth doing” time and again, especially in the last few years. I think it is more invaluable to do what scares you as you grow older, to keep your mind flexible.
Very inspiring. I like that. 🙂 I do have a comfort zone, but I venture out of it too. I shine both places, I feel. Especially loved that poem and the ending.
That’s a fabulous story and an inspiring poem, Corinne.
Agree with you, about stepping out of our comfort zones. Learning and growth happens when we move out of our comfort zone. But more often than not, we are scared to push ourselves and take that first step because of the mental security we get from following the old patterns and routines.
I liked your interpretation of the prompt!
I am one of those that tends to get very comfortable in my zone. This post is a good prod to move forward. Thank you.