Why Embracing Discomfort is Critical for Growth

“Discomfort brings engagement and change. Discomfort means you’re doing something that others were unlikely to do, because they’re hiding out in the comfort zone.” – Seth Godin

If you’re comfortable, you’re not growing. It’s the uncomfortable things that make us grow. The same is true in business: companies that embrace discomfort as a regular part of business life are more likely to achieve their goals and move closer and closer to fulfilling their company vision than those that don’t. Companies that stay comfortable—which feels great in the moment—end up losing in the long run, which doesn’t feel so great.

Discomfort is a prerequisite for change. When we get outside our comfort zone, and become aware of our fears that hold us back, we give ourselves permission to to grow. The fear can often paralyze us from taking the risk, saying something courageous, or being our authentic self.

Great organizations ensure their people have the tools, the frameworks and the culture to embrace discomfort and create change. These companies encourage people to “fail forward,” innovate, and take risks. In doing so, the entire organization moves from the comfort zone, through the fear zone, to the learning and growth zone. This is where transformation happens.

To what extent do you embrace discomfort? How do you acknowledge your fears? How does your company culture encourage the concept of “failing forward?”