Do you ever feel like there’s so much to work on that you don’t even know where to begin? That’s been me lately.
Someone shared a thought with me today:
“Just pull one thread. It’ll change the whole tapestry.” Essentially, change one thing, and it can ripple through your entire life.
That sounds great in theory. But… where do we start? Where does growth actually happen?
We’ve all heard the cliché: “Growth happens at the end of your comfort zone.” But does it?
There’s a fine line between “the end” of your comfort zone and way past it. At least for me. Push me too far beyond what feels safe, and I don’t rise—I shut down.
So how do we grow in a way that honors who we are? How do we build momentum without burning out?
Growth Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
I’m learning that growth takes time… and practice. It’s a skill set. A mindset. It takes intentionality.
And for those of us who crave instant gratification? That can feel painfully slow. It’s easy to get discouraged. But maybe the secret isn’t about chasing the big leap. Maybe it’s about making small, meaningful movements—on purpose.
What If Growth Can Be Comfortable?
Some research suggests that being in a constant state of disruption—always stretching, always changing—can actually be harmful. It overwhelms the nervous system. It’s too much. Especially for those of us who value stability.
But what if growth can happen within your comfort zone?
Not stagnant comfort. But intentional, focused, incremental growth. That kind of steady progress builds resilience. It strengthens your capacity without sending you into shutdown mode.
If you’re someone who thrives on predictability and routine (hi, it’s me), slower growth might be the right pace. And that’s okay. But slower growth does require patience. It asks us to release the expectation of quick results in exchange for something deeper and more sustainable.
When Life Pushes Before You’re Ready
Let’s be honest—sometimes growth doesn’t wait for us to be ready. Life throws something unexpected at us, and we’re forced to adapt. Whether we like it or not.
But every time we get through something new, we gain confidence. We prove to ourselves that we can do hard things. Sometimes we even discover joy, energy, or a new passion in something we never would’ve tried otherwise.
There’s research showing that new experiences can actually increase creativity and improve problem-solving. So maybe discomfort isn’t the enemy—it’s just a tool. One that needs to be used wisely and sparingly, not constantly.
So… Where Does Growth Happen?
Maybe growth isn’t about the end of your comfort zone or some dramatic transformation. Maybe it’s about meeting yourself where you are—being honest about what you need, what you can handle, and what you’re willing to try.
Maybe it’s one small thread.
One intentional change.
One uncomfortable, brave step forward.
That’s where I’m starting. Want to join me?