Today marks a very pivotal turn in my life. I started a new job at a new company one year ago today. Oh and it was a completely new industry for me too. The specifics aren’t necessarily important here. However, I turned down an opportunity for advancement in exchange for following my passion. Was I scared? Heck yeah! I played it cool, but deep down I wondered if I was making the right decision.  Now, standing on this side of 365 days, I know I did. I miss the people, my previous company and even the routine. The latter is what always seems to get us in the most trouble.

Why is it so hard to step outside of our comfort zones? Believe me, I’ve been there before. In fact, I was there a little over a year ago. Money, fear and familiarity can work to our detriment when any (or all) of those things prevent us from progressing. I finally reached a point where I had to leap off the cliff. The drop was frightening, but I had to have faith that I would land on my feet. Looking back, I have learned so much professionally within the last year. Learning stretches us and at times even exhausts us. Aren’t we supposed to evolve though? Many times we don’t want to rock the boat (even if temporarily flipping it over) to make our final destination. 

Standing on this side of one year later, I have learned that progression comes at a cost. Are you willing to pay that cost to get where you claim you want to be? Although the first jump was the most difficult, it gets easier for every jump afterwards. I feel more empowered now to make unconventional leaps towards my future, even if that means removing myself from a comfort zone. The first jump won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it. Are you ready to make that jump?

Also, if you haven’t checked out my latest poetry book, Stingrays, make that jump and get your copy HERE.