In Episode 21, “Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone,” Dr. Sarah Gordon and Dr. Marilyn Ward explore why stepping outside your comfort zone is important for growth. They discuss what science reveals about the benefits of working through challenges and offer practical strategies for fostering a growth mindset.

Sometimes, the first step is the hardest to take. Starting with that small step forward, trying one new thing, can propel you towards growth in what is known as a “learning zone,” where we push ourselves to try new things, learn with a growth-oriented mindset, and take actions towards change. While fear can often prevent us from growing, implementing strategies can help reframe our decision-making skills to foster growth.

In this episode, Dr. Gordon and Dr. Ward share personal accounts of how they have been challenged to grow and act towards change. They also discuss how growth doesn’t have to require a giant leap, but can be small, intentional steps beyond what feels comfortable. Each time we lean into discomfort, we train our brain, body, and spirit to adapt, to become stronger, and to expand what we thought was possible.

Listening to this episode, we hope it helps you reflect on the power of change, learning new things, taking steps towards new beginnings, and having the courage to step outside your comfort zone – which in turn may lead you towards greater joy and happiness, as you foster life-skills of resilience, adaptability, and confidence.

As always, Dr. Gordon and Dr. Ward are grateful to have this platform to educate, motivate, and reflect through their personal experiences as doctoral students and in life.

All information in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.