Linking up to Amanda’s Thinking Out Loud today for today’s random thoughts.
The last few days at work have been not only extremely rewarding, but also eye-opening. I was given the opportunity to take on a project at work that was somewhat out of my comfort zone. I had the option of completing an “easy” assignment that I have a lot of experience with or a project that would need more attention, thinking and time.
I’ll admit: I don’t love hard things. Yet, who really does? Unless I’m completely crazy, hard things aren’t fun for me. They’re, well, hard. BUT they aren’t necessarily bad.
Obvious news flash: hard things make you a stronger person. This is something I often forget when I’m given options because it’s hard to choose the challenge when there’s a very tempting easier route right next to it. Taking the easier path isn’t always bad (I think it’s needed sometimes), but I’ve found that it’s the hard things that end up being the most rewarding. Long story short, the project I tackled opened my eyes to a different subdivision of the company at which I’m interning. An area that I’m more passionate and about and, for the first time, I didn’t dread my day-to-day (as much). It forced me to think abstractly, take risks and ask questions. I think I’ve determined what I want to do with my life and that wouldn’t have happened if I stayed in my comfort zone.
Obviously my project at work was a very minor challenge compared to obstacles in life, but it reminded me that I need to apply that mindset to other situations. Whether it’s a challenge thrust upon me or one I have the choice of facing, I need to remember that hard does not equal bad. As I’ve been thinking more about exploring new places, I’m trying to remember that risk leads to reward. I won’t know unless I try, and even if I do “fail” I will always learn from the outcome*. (*End of clichés)
My recent work project inspires me to tackle- and embrace- whatever challenges life throws my way. While growing up, my mom would tell my sister and me: “Do something every day that scares you. It will be worth it.” Well, I guess my experience is just another example of mom’s always being right.
P.S.– She said that quote waaaaay before Lululemon used it on their bags ;)
When have you stepped out of your comfort zone?
That quote about sailing is officially my new favorite. So thank you for that :) I don’t love hard things either but it does make us stronger people and we’re better able to handle things that come our way as a result. Love this post!
Haha you’re welcome :) Hope the race goes well! It must be weird but cool to see it from the other side.