Prime Minister Narendra Modi surprised many when he appeared on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath’s podcast called “People”. During the two-hour-long conversation, Modi touched upon various aspects of his life including his early years in his native Gujarat village, his stint as Gujarat chief minister, friendships, and more. Modi, who is currently serving his third term as the prime minister, also emphasised the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
“Largely, I agree that most people fail in life because they get used to their comfort zone. Even a big entrepreneur, if he doesn’t take risks and step out of his comfort zone—whatever the levels of that zone maybe — he will end up failing. He has to step out,” Modi said.
He also said, “Anyone who wants to progress in any area of life should not be addicted to their comfort zone. Their mental ability to take risks will always be their driving force.”
Modi, 74, acknowledged that his “risk-taking capability has not been fully utilised.”
Clinical psychologist Divya Ratan said, “Stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for personal growth. It challenges you to adapt, learn, and acquire new skills, which boosts confidence. Trying new experiences broadens your perspective and exposes you to diverse cultures, ideas, and ways of thinking. She also said, “In the process, you learn to take risks and develop problem-solving behaviour.”
According to Kamna Chhibber, a clinical psychologist, facing challenges helps develop resilience and coping skills. “It allows for a process of discovery. It gives you the space to be innovative,” she said.
It is definitely not an easy task for many people as we are hardwired to react in a certain way to avoid stress, but expanding the comfort zone can become a necessity when growth becomes stagnant or self-dissatisfaction becomes an issue, asserted Dr Sonal Anand, psychiatrist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road.
Dr Anand noted that for moving out of one’s comfort zone, goals must be reassessed so that new goals are in place. “Planning well to achieve new goals also needs motivation. Expect to have some stumbles on the way… there will be good days and bad days. Sometimes you might face your fears .. make sure you don’t overstep at that time,” said Dr Anand.
Take it slow: Gradual changes are less overwhelming.
Understand the changes: Clearly define what you want to achieve by stepping out of your comfort zone.
Weigh pros and cons: “Have a realistic understanding of what is possible,” Chhibber said.
Build a support system: Surround yourself with people who encourage and guide you.
Be patient: Getting comfortable with discomfort takes time.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.
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