Why Getting Comfortable With The Uncomfortable Will Improve Your Mental Health

Many people go through life veering towards their “comfort zone”, avoiding change, and sticking with what they know. However, not only does this limit any substantial opportunities for growth – when you’re afraid to push the boundaries and delve into the unknown, frankly - you’re doing yourself a disservice.  
 
Ask yourself – when was the last time you felt truly uncomfortable? If you’re reluctant to answer that or simply don’t know the answer – keep reading.  

 
Growing pains are a real thing and do not stop when we reach adulthood. Growth and discomfort go hand in hand – and to gauge your self-development as an individual, you need to embrace all the ups and downs that life has to offer.  
 
When an unforeseen event or circumstance happens, rather than letting it dictate your emotional response – try to embrace the change. By choosing to adapt the way that you react to things, you will develop resilience, and in turn, uncover the true potential of what you’re capable of.  
 
Here is our go-to-guide for getting comfortable with the uncomfortable, so you can live a life that is both rewarding and exhilarating.

Embrace The Rollercoaster Mentality

Now, if you’ve ever seen the 1989 classic, “Parenthood” starring Steve Martin, you’ll be familiar with the scene in which a wise old lady equates the unpredictability of life to being on a rollercoaster.  
 
Ciphering the differences between those that stay on the “merry-go-round” and those that venture on the rollercoaster – she exclaims her amazement at how a ride could make her “so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together!”.  
 
Indeed, while its clear which ride “you get more out of” – it’s up to us to have the courage to get on it.  

Failure Is A Blessing In Disguise

When you’re going through times of adversity, it may feel like you want the ground to swallow you up. Whether it be some form of rejection, financial struggles, or doubts about your career - it’s normal to feel despondent in these tough times.  
 
However, if you reframe these situations into an opportunity to learn - you’ll become a positive and tenacious thinker.  
 
The saying that “everything happens for a reason” goes along way when we can evaluate things in hindsight and reflect consciously on our experiences. 
 
Homing in on your self-awareness in the very moments when you want to give up is when you’ll build strength and gain the confidence to overcome future challenges that life throws at you.  

 
Accept Uncertainty

Focus on what you can control and don’t stress about the little things. By choosing to accept uncertainty, rather than shy away from it – you will be much more equipped to cope with change; as, and when it comes along.  
 
Think of it this way – if everything in life was certain or guaranteed, what would be the point in living? To really live a life that’s full, you need to be excited by the prospect of not knowing what’s to come. The possibilities are endless, and by embracing uncertainty, you will open yourself up to an infinite wealth of opportunity.  

 
So, next time you’re thinking of staying in a job because it’s “easy” or you find it “familiar” - rather than putting yourself forward for the riskier, more fulfilling option – think again. If you find yourself struggling to follow your dreams because you’re already pre-empting a negative outcome – be bold and take that leap of faith.  
 
You’ll be surprised at how much your mindset can improve once you allow yourself to take these first steps and trust within yourself.  
 
Resilience, courage, and confidence are just some of the key traits that can be acquired from getting comfortable with the uncomfortable.  
 
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to level up your self-care. You can do it.  

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