There’s a quote from photographer and entrepreneur, Gina Milicia that says, “A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.” 

Throughout a decade of mentoring and coaching entrepreneurs, we’ve seen how many get stuck in their comfort zones for fear of showing weakness, or worse, failing. 

As an entrepreneur, it’s natural to want to stay in your comfort zone. After all, it’s familiar and safe.  It’s the regular routine that you already know produces results you’re comfortable with. 

When this flow and rhythm is disturbed by either a crisis or an opportunity, it may trigger bouts of fear, anxiety, and stress—the primary reason why most entrepreneurs avoid leaving their safe zones as much as possible. 

However, if you want to grow your business and achieve your personal goals, staying in your comfort zone is not an option. 

Why? Let us tell you.

Your comfort zone can limit your business growth potential 

The problem with staying in your comfort zone is that it primarily limits the areas you can further develop. It prohibits you from acquiring new skills and knowledge, which could otherwise contribute to the growth and longevity of your business. 

Let’s take the use of technology as an example. Not all entrepreneurs, CEOs, and company founders are comfortable, let alone adept, in utilizing the various applications and programs currently available. However, in this fast-paced, digital day and age, growth is much more achievable for those who can utilize new tools and leverage new information that essentially help people make smarter, more informed decisions in a shorter span of time. Those who have been open-minded about digitalization ever since web programs proved to be valuable, are the ones currently reaping its benefits. 

As in any career path, continuous learning will equip you with the expertise you need to cope with ever-evolving market trends, work cultures, management tactics, and global business strategies. In contrast, if you’re not willing to take risks, explore new ideas, and embrace new ways of doing things, you may miss out on major opportunities, thus, hindering your potential for business and personal growth.  

Stepping outside of your comfort zone can bring new opportunities 

Leaving your comfort zone also means having the opportunity to meet new people and grow your network. And as an entrepreneur— whether you’re starting out or are in the process of further growing your business— your network can open doors to crucial opportunities, relevant sources of information, and reliable support. It can separate the most successful businesses from struggling ones. 

According to Harvard Business School Professor, Bill Sahlman, “All great companies—even those with iconic entrepreneurs—had many other people who were involved and, without whom, the company might not have made it so big.” This essentially means that businesses of all scales will have an even more difficult journey without the interference of relevant networks. 

Collaborations, mentorships, and even new ventures are formed through developing and nurturing connections. It all starts with exploring the unfamiliar and opening yourself to new opportunities and potential partnerships, which will eventually form part of your business growth and success.

Overcoming fear is essential for success 

Being an entrepreneur isn’t easy. Apart from the tactical knowledge, it requires courage, dedication, and a willingness to take risks—characteristics that are necessary to start and grow a business.  

In fact, a research study shows that the people who became successful entrepreneurs are those who have low risk aversion. It means that those who are keener on taking calculated risks are able to create more opportunities for growth and progress. In the long run, entrepreneurs who successfully overcome fear and make informed, intelligent risks their competition is not willing to take end up at the top of their field. 

However, we understand that this is easily said than done. There are many factors that contribute to one’s fears that could be rooted in past experiences or traditional mindsets. But if you already have a sense of awareness and a consciousness on wanting to intentionally overcome your fears and worries, that’s the first, huge step towards stepping out of your comfort zone. 

In conclusion, staying in your “safe place” is not an option for entrepreneurs who want to grow their business. Stepping outside of your comfort zone may be unwavering and overwhelming, but it’s essential for growth, learning, and success. So, take a deep breath, have faith in yourself and your abilities, and take that first step outside of your comfort zone. You never know what opportunities may be waiting for you. 

Ready to start your journey beyond your comfort zone?  

Let’s talk about the next feasible steps you can take to overcome fear and confusion. Book a discovery call now.