As I thought about what I wanted to share this week, I thought about how much discomfort I have experienced over the last few years. I have been consistently experiencing discomfort, because I have been stretching myself. Moreover, I have been authentic, honest, courageous and transparent. The result of my discomfort is tremendous growth. Growing pains are real and if you have not experienced them in a while, it is probably time for you to raise the bar. Discomfort is not something that we seek out. In fact, we often try our best to avoid discomfort. Many times, fear of the unknown is what makes us uncomfortable. Would you be willing to experience discomfort, if you knew that it would result in a victory? What if I told you that there is a correlation between discomfort and victory? In my personal as well as my professional life, I have noticed a very clear pattern. I have noticed that before every breakthrough or milestone, I experience some form of discomfort. If you are seeking strength, you must keep in mind what it takes to build muscle. I know that it would be great if we could just hit the easy button and quickly reach our personal and professional goals. However, in our day to day lives, there is no easy button.
Are you willing to get out of your own way? It’s easy to blame our circumstances or other people when our lives do not go as we imagined. However, sometimes we must be honest and accept responsibility for the role that we have played as well. I know that it might sound harsh, but we are often our own worst enemy. Unfortunately, this means that instead of taking the route that requires us to step out of our comfort zone, we far too often settle for the easiest and most comfortable route. The reality is that your victory will always be outside of your comfort zone. Therefore, until you get comfortable being uncomfortable, you will not experience the breakthrough that you have been seeking. This week I challenge you to push through your inclination to stay within your comfort zone. It can be difficult being the first person among family and friends to step out and strive for excellence. However, I encourage you to accept the challenge, even if you must do it alone. The very task or situation that was initially uncomfortable will become easier, if you remain determined and consistent. Until next week…
Dr. Jessica Houston
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