Get comfortable feeling uncomfortable.
Every day in life, we try new things, whether it's food, sports, activities, wearing something you don't usually wear, etc. My point is, feeling uncomfortable is inevitable in life. Accepting that you feel uncomfortable and out of place is the first step to having more confidence.
Like I said before, this happens to everyone, every single day. You're not the only one feeling lost. Embrace the feeling and you'll learn to love that feeling.
Stepping out of your comfort zone is a step towards new opportunities, goals, and a higher confidence level. Trying new things is something that makes everyone feel good about. At the end of the day, you'll be proud of yourself that you tried something new today.
Basically, risk embarrassment. You never know the outcome of something unless you at least try!
Throughout my dance career, I struggled with the feeling of embarrassment. I never wanted to try something new or attend a massive class because of my fear of embarrassment. I was 16 when I finally felt comfortable feeling uncomfortable.
At 16, I branched out to a new studio. I didn't know anyone. I was so focused on dance at that point in my life. I wanted to better myself and make a career out of it.
By joining a new studio, I made lifelong friends and made a lifetime of memories. I improved the most I ever have within two years. I readied myself for becoming a professional dancer.
Unfortunately, life throws things in your path that can potentially ruin a plan. After already auditioning at multiple schools, deciding on Rowan University, and completing an entire semester as a dance major, I wanted to switch my career path. I was uncomfortable.
I wasn't sure of my decision anymore. I was nervous that I would never find a steady job. The dancer world is job after job. Sometimes dancers can go months without any paid job opportunities. I took control of the situation by getting comfortable feeling uncomfortable, and I switched my major.
Again, I branched out into a major that I would NEVER see myself doing in the past, but I sure am glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone. This major has forced me to try new things, meet new people, and join new clubs.
Being a Communication Studies major means so many things. I have so many opportunities and career paths to take. It has upped my confidence due to the fact that I am publishing my own content every single week.
I am so grateful for not being afraid to be embarrassed. Take a look at it this way: Look at the big picture. Don't think about now. Think about everything that could come to you if you risk your embarrassment right now. What if you never even tried? Living with that guilt is much worse than living with embarrassment that might only last a few hours.
Start. Don't quit. Continue pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Embrace the embarrassment. Surround yourself with open-minded people. Repeat.
In the words of the Russians, "Povtorenie mat ucheniya." Meaning: "Repetition is the mother of learning."
