Would you appreciate a friend that helped you be your best self? A friend that encouraged you to do the things that were good for you when your natural inclination would be to avoid them? Would you appreciate getting a clear sign of growth and expansion? A prompt to take action when change is needed?
Well, say hello to your friend, discomfort.
It might seem odd, but bear with me.
Discomfort is quite obviously the opposite of comfort, and we humans love our comfort! To feel safe, snuggly and completely unchallenged is absolutely comfortable, but it isn’t where growth, progress, and fulfillment are found (and believe it or not, it’s those things that truly satisfy).
Discomfort always carries a message for us and it is up to us to discern what that message is. In some cases discomfort can signal –
the need to speak your truth
the need to make a change, like the people with whom you socialize, the news, movies, and social media with which you engage
the need to prioritize your wellness, getting better sleep, more physical activity, and eating more whole foods
the need to leave an unhealthy relationship
the pull to take a risk and try something new
Discomfort can guide us to take action in ways that serve our overall wellbeing. It calls us from complacency into a more fulfilling existence.
Yet, it also is a harbinger of growth and expansion. When we choose to leave our comfort zone and embark on something new, discomfort is part of the process and must be tolerated if new advancements are to be made.
When we step into a new position of responsibility at work, welcome new members into our family, learn a new skill, or take a relationship to a new level of commitment, discomfort is often inevitable, but if we lean into that feeling and recognize it is temporary and a sure sign of growth, it suddenly isn’t quite so uncomfortable. The price of avoidance is to miss the excitement, fulfillment and joy that new endeavors can bring.
So the next time you’re feeling the twinges of discomfort in your life, pause. Ask yourself what is the discomfort showing you? What is it calling you to do? Trust your feeling and let it guide you to inspired action.
If you would like some support about the message discomfort is giving you, or any other life coaching topic, please reach out to schedule a free 30 minute call to explore how our working together could help you to create the life you desire.
