Stepping Outside of My Comfort Zone: Goal 1 of 2019
Tell me about a time where fear has held you back. When feelings of being considered different or strange overpower confidence and what you consider to be your super power. Well I have a long list of these times and I can finally say I am putting as much of an end to this as possible. Here’s what I’ve learned recently: The first step is acknowledgement. Figuring out you should have said that thing, or gone to that place, then determining why you didn’t. The second step is constant action: acknowledging that there will only be 8 seconds of awkwardness ( according to Brené Brown in, Daring to Lead) and taking the opportunity to just simply get over yourself. If you’re asked to speak publicly, just do it. When invited to an event that you feel serves you, just show up. Be as present as humanly possible by realizing you only have right now. Conditions are never perfect, nor should you wait for them to be.
Last week I decided to attend an event promoted on a travel beauty blogger’s Instagram. I had originally found her when looking for blogs to follow with Latina representation. Over the course of a few months I’d seen events of hers come and go, but this time I had this strong feeling to do something different. Opportunities for growth show up abundantly when you are willing and committed to making a change. Each time you pause to decide yes or no determines how many steps you take toward your goal. My goal in particular was to become more socially involved this year. I want to meet people on a similar journey who love to travel, are learning more about themselves and have a passion for self development. This involves actually being able to socialize and speak to people I may not approach on my own. Sharing my passions and story is extreme vulnerability for me. I sent the event to a friend who I thought would be equally interested and once she agreed I immediately purchased my ticket. (FYI, I’m still working on attending events alone: one step at a time) Stephanie Flor is the founder of Around the World Beauty and she was hosting a meet up for women interested in beauty, travel, spirituality and culture.
Upon arrival, my friend and I noticed there were a lot more women there than we had anticipated but we didn’t feel overwhelmed. It was clear Stephanie had created a safe space for discussions and vulnerability, all while encouraging us to dive into some Chai at The chai spot on Mott street in NYC, and get some henna done by wonderful talented women. I felt as if I’d just traveled to a new country, even though I was only a few miles from home. On our way to claim a spot, my friend and I were immediately greeted by Stephanie’s sweet face and kind energy. She handed us mantra cards chosen for us by the universe and delivered by her that read things like, “You are Beauty” and “Just let it go”. As the night went on a question was asked to the group: “What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever travelled to?” One by one, these brave women stood up providing their answers and explanations. I became emotional with thoughts of how travel has always been a dream of mine, and I remembered seeing limitations all around me leading to doubts that I’d ever be able to leave the country. As each woman spoke I thought about how not only do I appreciate their vulnerability but I can either relate to what they’re saying. I became proud of myself for being able to contribute to the conversation. I thought of the milestones I’d reached in six years: obtaining my passport, taking my first flight abroad, creating my first itinerary outside of a resort, the list continues as I have so much more to accomplish. I was honored to sit amongst like minded individuals who had overcome the same limitations and obstacles. I honestly felt the beauty of being in that circle and thought, “this may be the most beautiful place I’ve ever traveled to”.
The rest of the night was full of unexpected conversations and new connections. I am so happy I followed through on attending, and that I can say I truly stepped outside of my comfort zone. My friend and I were able to meet people outside of our normal circles and break away from our tired day to day routines. I’d never been to anything like this before but I left feeling validated in my craft and passion, excited for my next encounters and ready to promote Stephanie’s cause.
What I hope you receive from my message is this: figure out what scares you most and why. Take action steps if you feel these things serve your greater purpose or add value to your personal development. Commit to one change you’d like to see for the positive and honor your progress. Celebrate your wins and reflect on how far you’ve come. The mere thought of change and growth means you’re steps ahead of where you’ve been so I’m already proud of you.
