The comfort zone. Something we all devise for ourselves, whether we intend to or not. While some individuals' comfort zones might be large, others' are small, limiting the number of risks they are willing to take.
But why do we limit ourselves? Why do we have these little voices inside our heads telling us, "Don't do that, you're not [insert adjective here] enough for that." Whether we choose not to go to a party because we only know a handful of people going or don't go on a trip with friends because we fear we will be homesick, we are constantly creating barriers that prevent us from truly living life to the fullest.
The thing is, life is too short to limit ourselves to such restrictive spaces. Erase those lines of demarcation and embark on a journey that terrifies you. Often, the most rewarding experiences are the ones we initially dread. Regret always outlives fear, so if something seems scary, it is better to take the risk and jump rather than look back and regret fearing the outcome.
Really though, what's the absolute worst thing that could result from tearing down those self-imposed barriers? The guy we asked out turns us down, or we make a temporary fool of ourselves on the dance floor at the formal we were dreading? These negative consequences are so minor, so temporary -- nothing compared to the infinite possibilities that could result if we take the leap and simply ditch our self-doubt.
You never know when you could meet someone who could change your life forever, or when you could stumble upon a breathtaking moment you never even saw coming. Who knows how many laughs, stories, or introductions we could miss by simply opting for the easy way out and staying in for some Netflix and pizza?
If the "what-ifs" don't scare you enough, just think of how much more fun it is to take risks rather than to play it safe. Limiting yourself is so bland, too safe to really bring about any happiness or self-growth.
If you want to dye your hair purple, go for it. If you're too scared to tell that guy you like him, who cares; go for it. When you're 80 years old and sitting in a rocking chair, sipping on some tea, you're not going to look back on your life and say, "Wow, I really wish I had stayed at home instead of going to that party my sophomore year of college." Sure, not every risk is going to be life-changing or positive, but whatever the result of stepping out of your comfort zone is, it will make you grow as a person.
Life is better when it's a little uncomfortable.
