I am notoriously structured and will always prefer order to chaos. However, anytime a student or rising young professional asks for career advice, I always say the same thing: don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Rarely does anyone enjoy being put into an uncomfortable position, but real growth – professionally or personally - will never find you if you don’t push your limits.
Sure, staying in your comfort zone can produce reliable and consistent results. That said, have you ever achieved something you were truly proud of while still completely inside the boundaries of your own comfort zone?
So, how can you step outside your comfort zone in your current position? Go to lunch, shadow or learn a new skill from someone outside your immediate department. Reach out to others within the industry and make new networking connections. Finally, as you prepare for a future next step, don’t let factors that may make you uncomfortable – like location – deter you from exploring the opportunity. Be comfortable being uncomfortable!