This week’s exercise: Between now and group therapy on Thursday, think about an activity that would challenge your comfort zone; then, confront that fear and do it. This is your challenge, so be as daring or as conservative as you want – but stretch yourself beyond what you think you can do.
Thought for the Day: Stepping outside our comfort zone can be extremely difficult because we feel strongly influenced by how other will see us. How would I look to these people if I do that? Don’t let the opinions of strangers rule your life when it’s your life you’re living.
The one thing that would greatly challenge my comfort zone is to make a vlog.
So I did.
Enjoy! Or not.
Okay, can I breathe now?
Phew!
That was hard. I certainly feel stretched! I apologize for being two days late with this post, but it took a lot of courage to do this and I was kind of resistant.
I practiced a lot, but I still sounded tentative and I think I tend to swallow some of my words. So, I’ll practice more.
While I was watching it, I wanted to explain that we’re in the middle of a heat wave, which is why I look kind of washed out and why my mascara is running a bit. That was the extent of the criticism regarding my looks. My eyes are definitely kinder when I look at myself.
Overall, I didn’t beat myself up over this attempt. I’m pretty happy with it. I can see that there’s room for improvement, but I’m pleased that I managed to keep it relatively short and that I only said “um” a few times.
I’ve had to call on my affirmations a few times this week, and fortunately they saved the day. It’s working.
In other news, I’m currently on leave and I have lots planned. You’ll read all about it right here, so stay tuned.
LOVE it!! I think you did great! And I’m not just saying that.
As usual, there’s so much I relate to in what you said: I, too, used to be so much more daring and loved change…now? Not so much. It may be just a function of aging, but it’s something I worry about too.
Are you familiar with the Myers-Briggs personality type indicator? When I first tested, I was ENFP (E for extrovert) but I think over time I have become I for introvert. That doesn’t mean I hate people or don’t like to socialize, it just means that I need a break from people and socializing and that I am better able to recharge my batteries alone, versus with others.
I recently checked out a local Toastmaster’s group and plan to go again…maybe. I liked it, but there are certain aspects that turned me off.
KCLAnderson (Karen) recently posted..Life Is Good
@KCLAnderson (Karen): I did the Myers-Briggs a number of years ago, but can’t remember what I ended up as. It may be a good idea to do it again.
Thanks for watching!
Ooh, definitely take the Myers-Brigg’s Personality test if you haven’t done it, yet. When you’re done and see your results, it’s like someone has literally taken the diary of your entire personality and read it back to you. It also shows you how to be more forgiving to yourself because you realize that you are not the only one!
Now, on to the BIG stuff: Hanlie, I could say so many positive things about your week’s choice, but I’m going to stick with what I feel deep down: I can’t tell you what a joy it was to hear you, see you, listen to the inflection in your voice, your beautiful accent, watch your animated face. You were brilliant and I loved it. You may have noticed a few things that need improvement, but then again if you were perfect you wouldn’t be considering this a big challenge. Overall, you were great – and you’re only going to get better! Thank you for being such an uplifting participant this month. It’s been an honor and a joy to have you (and I’ve learned a lot from you!)
Ellen recently posted..Group Therapy Thursday: Week Three
@Ellen: Thank YOU for hosting this challenge, Ellen. It’s been very helpful for me.
And thanks for the kind words. It means a lot.
Love this vlog. And you have such a nice accent and I can see why you love your hair. Getting out of my comfort zone is a fantastic idea!
Chris recently posted..Foam Rolling…it’s painful but it works…
@Chris: I really feel strongly about busting out of my comfort zones. They’re not comfortable! I’m certainly not comfortable in my body… or many areas of my life. It will take work and courage, but I think I’m ready.
most all of us (USA folks) absolutely swooned to hear your accent. It is lovely. Your voice is lovely.
Even before I read what you wrote, I thought – I bet it is a zillion degrees there right now (as I look out the window at a lot of snow).
Please post the work update soon (because I am a worrier and would rather know than imagine).
Good job with the video post.
vickie recently posted..What I did this week
@vickie: Thanks Vickie! It’s been really hot… The coolest place is my car!
I love this post! Screw comfort zones! Yes!! I am with you…:-)
Kat recently posted..New Moon and Chinese New Year
Am going to watch this as soon as I get home. Can’t wait.
Julia recently posted..Sunday highlights and some stuff about clicks
You beautiful, brave woman. I LOVED watching this. And yes, screw comfort zones!
Julia recently posted..Coming out of the closet