THE POWER (AND PERILS) OF LEAVING COMFORT ZONE
And why we should. Regularly.....
Hello Wonderful Women,
I hope this finds you well and thriving as we approach mid year! Isn’t that scary - the fact that June (and the middle of 2025) is staring us in the face! I sincerely hope your year is going as you would wish.
In this issue, I want to talk about something that can feel both exhilarating and a little bit scary: stepping out of your comfort zone.
I want to talk about this now, as this is exactly what I’m doing right now. As regular readers will know, I’m working on turning 45 Not Out into a proper business where it generates income by introducing products that help women at this time of life. It’s my dearest wish that this total passion project that I started some years ago based on my experiences on trying to set up a business in my 50’s, turns into something more viable and recognised.
But, it isn’t easy, and a lot of the things I’m trying leave me with shaky hands and the most dreadful case of Imposter Syndrome.
But, I’m trying to ignore and work past that for the following reasons:
Why Bother Leaving Your Comfort Zone?
Let’s be honest-by the time we reach our forties, fifties, and beyond, we’ve earned our comfort zones. We know what we like, what we’re good at, and that brings us peace. But here’s the secret: growth doesn’t happen in the easy chair. It happens when we stretch ourselves, even just a little.
Stepping out of your comfort zone can:
Boost your confidence. Every new challenge you tackle is proof to yourself that you’re capable.
Spark creativity. New experiences light up different parts of your brain, inspiring fresh ideas.
Build resilience. Facing the unknown teaches us to adapt and bounce back, no matter what our age.
Open up new opportunities. Whether it’s a new hobby, a career move, or a travel adventure, you never know what’s waiting just outside your usual routine.
So, it’s (hopefully) these absolute benefits (wouldn’t it be lovely to have just a little more confidence and resilience?) that I’m hoping to acquire by pushing myself through the scary bits.
Here’s how I’m doing it:
Start Small
The temptation, once we decide to shake things up, is to go all in. But here’s a gentle warning: don’t try to reinvent your whole life overnight. Burnout is real, and it’s no friend to anyone, especially when we’re juggling careers, family, and our own well-being.
A few tips for safe, sustainable growth:
Pick one thing. Maybe it’s signing up for a class, joining a new group, or saying “yes” to a project at work.
Set realistic expectations. Remember, you’re not competing with anyone-least of all your younger self!
Celebrate progress. Every step outside your comfort zone is a win, no matter how small. And a reward doesn’t have to be big - it can something as small as a chocolate bar.
Listen to your body and mind. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to pause and regroup.
I’m throwing down the gauntlet….
This issue, I’m setting you lovely lot a challenge. I invite you to pick one thing that feels just a little bit daring. Maybe it’s speaking up in a meeting, booking that solo trip, or just wearing something you wouldn’t normally wear.
Whatever it is, do it for you. And if you want to share your experience, hit reply-I’d love to hear your stories! And know that what you share with me stays just between me and you. THIS IS A SAFE SPACE.
Remember, growth isn’t about becoming someone else. It’s about becoming more you-braver, bolder, and even more brilliant than before.
Before you go…
Can I please ask a favour. Those lovely readers who have been with me since the start - 2020, would you believe? - will know that I research and produce this newsletter each fortnight and send it through to almost 160 fab, loyal subscribers (I thank you with all my heart) FOR FREE.
I have to admit - I love doing it - but it does take up some time. More often than not, before I put pen to paper, I research the topic I’m writing about online and present you lovely lot with information and suggestions that I hope benefit you in your everyday lives.
What I’m asking right now, is that, if my fortnightly emissions have helped you in any way, then would you be kind enough to buy me a coffee? I have a Kofi account where you can donate - click on this here to donate a one-off payment.
Thank you so much
In the meantime, sending you love, health and strength as you step out of your comfort zone.
Till a fortnight’s time
Una x