If you have ever shied away from taking a risk because it felt too big or scary, you know a little something about choosing comfort over courage. And let’s face it; it’s perfectly sensible to avoid certain risks sometimes, simply because they could lead to unacceptable negative consequences if they don’t work out in your favor.
However, consider whether avoiding risk has become a lifestyle for you. Do you go to great lengths to avoid all risks, or just those that seem intimidating? Have you slipped into a rut of mediocrity because your comfort zone has gotten a little too comfortable? Maybe the last time you took a risk, it didn’t work out well for you, and you vowed to play it safe from now on.
With every decision you make, you are choosing either courage or comfort, and there are benefits and drawbacks to both. Of course, you want your life to be comfortable, but too much comfort breeds boredom. And remember, your comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there. Risk-taking can be exhilarating but carried to the extreme it can result in anxiety and recklessness. Try to aim for a healthy balance between the two.
Consider your life circumstances right now and notice any feelings of boredom or stagnation. Maybe you’ve held the same job for years and you have never really liked it. Perhaps your life hasn’t really changed much in decades, and you move through your days on autopilot.
Living more courageously is as simple as deciding to take more risks. But they do not need to be big risks, especially when you’re just getting started. Instead, think about some small steps that you might take to build up your courage.
While you may not be ready to completely change your career, perhaps you could send away for information on certification programs that would help you start moving in the right direction. Maybe you’re not quite ready to start dating again, but you could join a support group, read some books, or take a course on healthy relationships. If you will commit to challenging yourself in small ways every day, your courage will grow and you will feel less intimidated about taking bigger risks.
Before taking any risk, ask yourself these questions:
- Do I stand to lose anything if I take this risk?
- Am I willing to accept those consequences?
- Do I stand to gain anything if I take this risk?
- Am I willing to forgo those rewards?
- Which is the wiser choice in this situation, courage or comfort?
Your answers to these questions should help you determine whether the potential negative consequences for moving forward would be too great, or if you’re just nervous about stepping out of your comfort zone. Sometimes you will decide to move forward, and sometimes you will decide against it. Either way, be proud of yourself for at least being willing to confront your fear and build your courage.
Most importantly, cheer yourself on whenever you do decide to take a risk, no matter how it turns out in the end. Keep reminding yourself that you are brave and strong, and you will find yourself acting like it more and more of the time.
