We have been in New Zealand for one week and today started our assignment as co-leaders of the Nazarene church here in Dargaville. Coming into this situation puts us out of our comfort zones in many ways.
We are in a country where neither of us have been before. We are now driving a car on the left side of the road with the steering wheel on the right. In terms of food, we can find foods here that we are used to back home, but most often the taste and/or texture are different. For example, sweet corn is harvested later here, so what we might consider overripe is considered just right. There are things we know we will not find.
While we are discovering the differences compared to how we almost unconsciously lived each day back home, we are also determined to get used to being uncomfortable, living outside our comfort zones.
As we started at the church today (Jan. 28, 2018), we asked the people to do things as they usually would. We want to learn how they do things rather than imposing our way. After all, they were here long before we came and will remain long after we go.
Our natural instincts as leaders could be to do what comes naturally within our comfort zones. But if we are going to be effective outside of our familiar context and culture, we must be willing to be uncomfortable in order to understand the context and culture in which we now serve.
Generally, getting out of your comfort zone does not come easily, and it must be intentional. When we are not intentional about leaving our comfort zone, and when things are not going the way we expect or want, we might find ourselves becoming angry, judgmental and frustrated.
When we step back and allow ourselves to let go of our expectations and try to learn from others, we discover we are less likely to be frustrated, angry or disappointed.
Think about a situation that is stressing you now. Do you need to step out of your comfort zone and allow yourself to be informed rather than frustrated? Maybe you can ask questions to learn something about the situation and gain a new perspective.
You may not be stressed about a situation right now. Then perhaps you can intentionally take a step outside your comfort zone by trying something new and different. One of the biggest challenges of stepping out of your comfort zone is giving up control to someone else.
Most of us do not like to give up control. We don’t even think about how difficult giving up control is until we are faced with having to do it. Often, we don’t realize that our struggle in a situation has more to do with giving up control than anything else taking place in the situation.
The next time you are feeling frustrated, angry or disappointed about a situation, ask yourself: Is this something that is challenging my comfort zone or my sense of control? Will you choose to step out of your comfort zone to better understand and resolve the situation?
If you would like help in stepping out of your comfort zone or giving up control as a leader or in any area of your life, call us at 208-880-0307 or email us at errol@errolcarrim.com to schedule a complimentary coaching session. To read Errol’s other posts, visit Christ-Centered Life Coaching.
Photo: Rhonda, Errol and Kimberly in front of the Dargaville Nazarene church.