Staying in your comfort zone may feel good, but it won’t help you advance in your career or personal life. We often avoid taking risks because of fear of failure or rejection, but expanding outside of our comfort zones can lead to new opportunities and experiences. To increase our circle of influence, we need to step out of our comfort zone and take on new challenges. Read on to discover actionable tips on how to get out of your comfort zone and build a strong network of supporters.

Identify and face your fears. Fear is one of the biggest roadblocks to stepping out of our comfort zone. To overcome fear, we first need to identify what we’re afraid of. Write down your fears and think about why you’re afraid of them. Then, try to face them head-on by taking small steps outside your comfort zone. For example, if you’re afraid of public speaking, try giving a short presentation in front of a small group first.

Join a new group or network. One of the best ways to expand your circle of influence is to meet new people. Join a group or network related to your interests or career goals. Attend events and introduce yourself to new people. Exchange contact information and follow up with them afterwards to keep in touch.

Volunteer and give back. Giving back to your community not only helps others, but it also helps you build your circle of influence. Volunteering allows you to meet new people and develop new skills. It can also lead to new opportunities and connections. Look for volunteer opportunities that align with your values and interests.

Take on a new challenge. Growth and development comes from taking on new challenges. Take on a new project or task that is outside your comfort zone. This can be at work, in your personal life, or a new hobby. Stretching yourself and pushing past your limits will help you grow and develop new skills.

Practice self-care. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be stressful and challenging. It’s important to practice self-care to maintain your mental and physical health. Take breaks, engage in activities you enjoy, and take care of your body. Taking care of yourself will help you stay focused and motivated as you push past your comfort zone.

Stepping out of your comfort zone can be challenging, but it’s necessary to increase our circle of influence and grow as individuals. By identifying and facing our fears, joining new groups and networks, giving back, taking on new challenges, and practicing self-care, we can push past our limits and achieve greatness. The first step is to take action and step outside your comfort zone. Start with small steps and work your way up. You never know what opportunities might come your way when you expand your circle of influence.