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Advice from the women of Connect: Professional Women’s Network

Out of Bounds: How to Leave Your Comfort Zone

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“Travel to a foreign country. It will reawaken your creativity. When you come back, you will feel recharged and ready to face new challenges. If you can't travel, then meet new people from abroad.” Gisselle Aguirre, Healthcare professional

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“The best way I have found to conquer my fears is to learn more about them. Used to be afraid of spiders and snakes until I did more research on the subjects. Once I understood more about what I was afraid of, it became easier to get past the fear.” Laura Downing, Housecleaning professional

“As the old Nike slogan used to say "Just do it!". Trying to psych myself into doing something new or difficult just adds unnecessary mental pressure. Also, it helps to make trying new things a habit.” Jessica Collier, Internet Marketing Administrator

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“I write a to-do-list with goals. Some are to get out of my comfort zone. After you do a few uncomfortable things, you are much more capable than you realize.” Pat Pilla, Owner, Chee Bonnet

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“I have used simple (and powerful) things like moving my watch to a different wrist; using my non-dominant hand; rearranging my office; shifting the time of day I do activities, etc. Those kinds of changes loosen patterns and contribute to a greater sense of fluidity, making stepping beyond a comfort zone, not only easier, but more likely.” Sharon Colby, Organizational Development Professional

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“A long time ago, a mentor told me to 'act as if I can' - attitude is half the battle! I am also a big believer in 'Don't believe everything you think!' It is rarely as scary to do something new as we make ourselves believe it is!” Joanne Sardini, General Manager

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Join the conversation!Connect: Professional Women’s Network, Powered by Citi, is an online community on LinkedIn that helps women achieve the careers they want and discuss the issues relevant to their success.

For more great insights from Connect members, check out the discussion: What’s your favorite technique for moving out of your comfort zone?

Visit linkedin.com/womenconnect for more information and to join the group!

FLICKR PHOTO CREDITS:Slide 1: Snookster89Slide 6: Artnoose

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