THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING BEYOND COMFORT

Being in the stretch zone presents challenges that can make it feel a bit daunting to approach, so it’s wise to step into it with a growth mindset, and “dare to suck at something new”. But still, WHY? Ultimately, if you don’t allow the feeling of discomfort (in moderation) - you’re less likely to find yourself in a realm where innovation thrives and creativity flourishes. Let’s take a closer look at how to safely embrace self-development with the adaptability you need in the world of work today.

STEPS TO HARNESS THE POWER OF THIS THEORY

1. Self-awareness: Begin by reflecting on your current zones. What areas do you feel comfortable in, and where do you want to grow?

2. Set goals: Define clear objectives for expanding your Stretch Zone. Break these objectives down into manageable steps.

3. Risk-taking: Be open to taking calculated risks. Understand that mistakes and failures are integral parts of the learning process.

4. Learners mindset: Cultivate a growth mindset. Believe in your ability to acquire new skills and adapt to change.

We've established that some serious learning happens outside one's comfort zone, where we encounter unfamiliar territories that help us push boundaries. However, it's important to remember that everyone’s threshold for these zones is completely unique and context-dependent:

Pushing yourself (or being pushed) too far, can result in finding yourself in the “panic zone” where you begin to experience the heaviness of stress and anxiety, and mental blocks. Staying alert to how you feel throughout the process is key since you know yourself best.

Hybrid work environments highlight and support this individuality. Here’s why:

• In a hybrid workplace, you're even more likely to encounter vastly different interpretations of these zones, enriching the learning experience. What might be a bold step for one person could be a mere stride for another.

• This diversity enriches the learning experience, by celebrating individuality and fostering a culture of respect and understanding. It provides deep insights into how people approach their zones.

• Diversity is harnessed to create an environment valuing and utilizing each member's uniqueness. It's where learning embraces diverse perspectives and personal growth stories.

DON’T PUSH, JUST SUPPORT

The key is not to force individuals into a particular zone but to create an environment where they feel supported in exploring their stretch zone. Facilitative leadership fosters this by providing guidance, encouragement, and the freedom to experiment.

USE THIS TO ENGAGE YOUR TEAM

To put theory into practice, gather your team and invite them to reflect on their comfort and stretch zones. Ask them to consider how these zones relate to their roles and ways of working, and then encourage them to share their insights with the group. Look at how you can combine the theory of comfort vs. stretch zones into an exercise like the portrait exercise to deepen team bonds.