A comfort zone is something that we all have in some shape or form. There is some area in our daily life in which we simply do not feel comfortable. Therefore, we stay in our comfort zone where we are nice and safe. The only problem with this strategy is that it ultimately prevents us from getting where we truly want to be.
Since I can remember I have always been a quiet person. This is not a bad thing, but it is not necessarily good all the time either. I was never a kid who answered questions in class, presented in front of others, or wanted any type of attention. I was perfectly content with being there and not being recognized. Of course I was social and I did have many friends, but they were inside my comfort zone.
As I got older this trend continued. Being more aware of this after seeing others who were always speaking out and seeking attention, I began to wonder why I did not have that same thing in me. Why did I not speak up when I knew answers to questions? Why did I not speak up when I had a constructive idea to add to a group conversation? These are just a couple of questions that I reflected upon.
I have never been one to follow just because everyone else is doing something. I have no fear of stepping out and blazing my own path or trying something new. Often times, in the past, I have been told that others view me as a leader. It has always been the quiet, lead by example type of leader because that is inside my comfort zone. At the same time, however, if something needs to be addressed or needs to be said, and I feel strongly about it then I have no issue speaking up. I would love for everyone to like, but I know that is not reasonable. As a leader, there are times when you have to make tough decisions and you will upset some folks. It comes with the territory, unfortunately, and you have to be able to handle that.
Teaching and coaching have both helped me step outside of my comfort zone to some degree. They have forced me to get up in front of classrooms and gyms/stadiums full of other people and work. Because of these experiences I know it is definitely something that I have inside of me. For some reason, though, it is different when I am required to do the same in a room full of my peers. That has been the latest issue I have been self-reflective of.
As an administrative leader I have a good idea of how I will be when my opportunity comes. I will not change who I am, but rather keep being me and doing what I do. Having said that, I do realize that my comfort level with presenting in front of my peers is an area that I need to develop. I will most likely always be a quiet person overall and I am comfortable with that. The position that I want to one day climb to requires me to better in areas outside of my comfort zone. I have realized that it is something I have to tackle head-on and it will be something that comes with time and experience. Instead of waiting on those opportunities to come to me I have requested more of those opportunities on my campus in hopes of getting me to where I want and need to be.
As leaders, we can't be afraid to admit our shortcomings and areas of weakness. We cannot be afraid to step outside of our comfort zones to become better versions of ourselves. If we expect our students and peers to strive to be their best, we must first be that visible example for them to follow.
And the learning continues.....
