It has been said that the definition of insanity is repeating the same behavior over and over and expecting a different result. Your comfort zone is a nice place to be (hence the word 'comfort'). It's predictable, it's easy, it's secure. You're used to it, and there's no risk. But if you want to change or improve your results, whether you're looking to attract higher value clients, to improve the performance of your employees or simply to re-energize your practice and get motivated, you've got to step out of your comfort zone and try something different every once in awhile. If you want the rewards, you've got to take the risk. It is, by definition, uncomfortable, but it's worth it.
Here are some tips for stepping out of your comfort zone:
Focus on the benefits. Write down what the end result of stepping out of your comfort zone will be. Make a list of as many positives that can come out of this activity as you can think of. As you move forward, keep that end result in mind.
Remember that even failures can be successes. Every experience, even if it doesn't result in the outcome you hoped for, is a learning experience. Don't let the fear of failure stop you - remember that some of the biggest successes in history have resulted from a failures. Be open to the possibility that something great might happen, even if it's different than what you originally anticipated.
Explore the worst case scenario. Write down the worst thing that could possibly happen if you try something new. Make it as bad as you possibly can. Then consider how likely that possibility is -- and what you could do to improve the situation if the worst actually happened. How might you go about fixing it? Once you really look at it (instead of avoiding it) you may realize that the worst isn't really as bad as it seems (or that you've encountered worse and survived). If you have a plan in place to handle the worst if it does occur, taking that new step won't seem as scary.
Review past successes. Think about your biggest accomplishments and past achievements - where would you be now without them? How many of them were the result of first stepping out of your comfort zone and doing something different? How many were the result of the same old habits? Once you realize that success depends on change and acting in spite of fears and misgivings, you'll be more confident about taking additional risks.
Take it slow. Change doesn't have to occur all at once. If you're new to stepping out of your comfort zone, take baby steps toward reaching your goal or taking on a new project. What is the smallest step you can take outside of your comfort zone? Set a deadline for yourself and take that small step.
Keep trying. Life is a process of trial and error. If your first venture outside of your comfort zone doesn't have the result you'd like, try again. Those who achieve the most are generally those that are the most persistent. They don't let failure get in their way.
Have you stepped out of your comfort zone lately? What can you do differently in your practice?
If you'd like some help strategizing about ways to improve your practice and step outside of your comfort zone, feel free to contact me, or check out my website at Lawyer Meltdown for information, articles and products to help you improve your practice.
Comments