I hate to admit it, but I am a big fan of comfort zones. They’re just so comfy and cozy and free from stress and anxiety. But they’re not a good place to be. You see, nothing ever grows in comfort zones. You don’t gain knowledge and nothing gets better by chilling there. I was listening to a sermon by Dr. Derwin Gray and he said something that really made me think. He said ” you can’t change the world by staying in your comfort zone.” I mean, how true is that? If you think of all the amazing people in this world who have really made a difference, you realize that at some point they had to get uncomfortable. We should all want to make the world a better place, we should all want to help our friends, neighbors and even strangers. This means we have to step out and get our hands messy. Knowing that it is up to us to see change and make the world a brighter place, should be our motivation. We have to be the good influences that our children see, so that they grow up knowing that kindness and compassion really do matter. We should step out of our comfort zones to show our kids that bravery and taking on challenges are what ultimately makes us better as individuals but also brings together communities and makes the world a happier place to be.

There are many different types of comfort zones that you need to get yourself out of. Maybe you’re stuck in a zone where you keep eating unhealthy foods, you know its bad, but its comfortable. Or you maybe stuck in the comfort zone of your couch. You know you should get up and exercise or move your body somehow, but that couch is so cozy. Maybe you have this job that you’re really comfortable at but something is unsettled inside of you and you’re feeling called to step out and challenge yourself. Do it! Let’s get out of these comfy places. I know they feel nice and safe right now, but think of all the good we can do, all the growth that can happen and the inspiration that we can be to other people.

So if you’re looking for a sign, this is it. Let’s get uncomfortable.