As I sat yesterday afternoon with my business partner Jason Hughes in a sauna at the Excaliber Hotel’s health club in Vegas, I was brought back to a conversation he and I had exactly a year before in the exact same place, sitting on the exact same bench. Here’s how it went:
Jason: “You did great in your seminar today bud.”
Me: “Thanks man. But let me ask you something: Why aren’t you speaking here too?”
Jason: (with a pensive look and half smile) “You know, I’ve never really thought about that……I’m going to apply.”
Me: (with a really big smile) “Awesome. You’re going to be great. I can’t wait.”
You see, last year was my 3rd time speaking at the National Pool/Spa show in Vegas. And every year, Jason had attended my sessions and always been such a tremendous support. But being a ‘shy’ guy, he’d never considered the fact that he could give an incredibly valuable seminar to attendees as well—that is, until I asked.
So, throwing caution and comfort aside, Jason trusted his gut. He applied to speak shortly after our conversation in the sauna. Weeks later, he was given the green light. And yesterday afternoon at 12:30pm eastern time, exactly one year later, he gave one of the best classes the swimming pool industry has ever seen on how to build a fiberglass swimming pool.
Am I proud of the guy? Yeah, you bet I am.
The Problem with Comfort Zones
I relay this story because it coincides perfectly with a statement given by Peter Shankman in his incredible keynote here at Blog World LA today:
“Nothing good ever comes from staying in your comfort zone.”
Ahh yes, how true it is.
I’ll repeat:
“Nothing good ever comes from staying in your comfort zone.”
As he will naturally admit, my dear friend Jason is an introvert. He is not one that has ever felt the need nor desire to be in the middle of the spotlight. Notwithstanding, the guy has amazing talents and abilities, and yesterday he was able to share them with many, many business owners that needed his help.
Thus, because he was willing to put himself in an uncomfortable situation, Jason touched lives, families, and businesses.
Such is the way life works.
My Uncomfortable Road to Success and Happiness
At 20 years of age and a sophomore in college, I decided to drop everything and live in Chile for two years. Uncomfortable? Oh yes. Rewarding? I can’t even begin to explain the foundation that time period laid for the rest of my life.
At 23 year of age I was attending college again, but now married, and expecting my first child. To top it off, I was writing a book (a memoir of my time in Chile) and working 25 hours a week. Uncomfortable? Yes. Rewarding? My wife and I look back at our time in Morgantown with a fondness that simply can’t be put into words.
At 25 I went into business with my two partners and opened a swimming pool company in Virginia. For years we struggled through hardships, embezzlements, and frustration. Clearly, this was the most uncomfortable and stressful time of my life. Was it worth it? My goodness yes. The trials forced us to think in ways we never would have imagined. Without question, those years were the refiner’s fire of my life.
At the age of 31 I embraced Hubspot, inbound marketing, and the internet. Uncomfortable? Considering I’d always been a ‘tech-dummie’, you better believe it was. Rewarding? Everything The Sales Lion is, and all of the success this blog has had, is a direct result of that momentous decision. Plus, considering the fact that Inbound Marketing saved my pool company and gave me the opportunity to further pursue my passion of speaking and helping other businesses, I’d say ‘Yes, it was dang worth it!’
Today, at the age of 33, I find myself speaking around the country to different businesses, groups, and conferences. Without question, speaking to large audiences of people that expect to be fed great information and value can be a little uncomfortable. But the reward? My career has exploded these last 6 months. The message I bring literally is changing lives and saving businesses. That, my friends, makes any discomfort dissipate into the joy of knowing I’m doing what I was put here on Earth to do.
Is It Time to Leave Your Comfort Zone?
A few weeks ago in my post “Hey Blogger, Eventually You Actually Have to Do Something”, I mentioned the fact that once a trees stops growing it dies. The same can be said for us a bloggers, business owners, and human beings. We must continue to grow. We must stretch ourselves just enough to experience the joys that come with such challenges.
So that’s my charge to you on this day my friends. Get uncomfortable. Start that blog. Push record on that video camera. Send that application you’ve had sitting on your desk. Make that phone call that has been on your mind. The list could go on and on, but you know what that ‘it’ is for you. And as you do these things, I promise the rewards of tomorrow will far outweigh the discomfort of today.
Your Turn
I would love to hear your answer to this question: What is one of the most uncomfortable decisions you’ve ever made in your life and how were you rewarded by choosing this path? As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts and appreciate your support of this special community.
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I filed in, took my seat,…
{ 55 comments… read them below or add one }
Congrats to Jason for taking this big leap out of this comfort zone. It’s a big step for an introvert to go into public speaking. I’m not an introvert, and when I first joined Toastmasters, I was terrified! So, kudos to him!
I need to get more uncomfortable myself. I’ve been doing that as far as my fitness goals, I’m now exercising most every day. Work as well, I am making more sales calls than normal, and the results show…
But I’ve been coasting with other aspects, the blogging, home improvement and some other stuff. How on earth do you get outside the comfort zone in multiple facets of your life?
Great post, you’re still the king of the jungle!
Joe @ Not Your Average Joe´s last [type] ..25 Health & Weight Loss Tips From A Former Fat Guy. I Need Them More Than Ever
Man Joe, look at all your growth in this last year brother! Sounds like you’re pushing your comfort zone, no doubt about it.
As for adding to the list, yeah, I’m sure there is always a little room. Notwithstanding, I can see you going in the right direction with each new ‘push’.
So big props to you my friend and I can’t thank you enough for your support here.
Have a great weekend,
Marcus
Heh Marcus – nice work on the life so far!! – Chile is high up on my list of places to go next – with Patagonia the destination. Cycling in Mongolia though is next year’s plan – so maybe the following year>>>??
I define it as “Push” – whatever you do – you always need to keep pushing yourself / pushing others (ideally in a positive way!). For me though – this does not always mean you have to leave the comfort zone – as long as you are pushing the edges of the zone further and further out… Sometimes it’s nice in the ‘zone’…
Nic Cartwright´s last [type] ..Why a Re-brand is rarely the answer
Patagonia Nic?? Dude, you’ve got to go man!! The ‘Tierra del Fuego’ is amazing, the penguins, it’s all absolutely enchanting.
Push is a good word to describe this man. Yeah, I’m diggin that.
Make that trip happen brother…I’m ready to hear all about it and see the photos!!
Marcus
Marcus, I can relate to Jason very well. My boss has been ‘gently pushing’ me to get out of my comfort zone. I have to say, new doors are opening to me and I now try to push myself. It is uncomfortable at times, yes. I would say sometimes it takes someone else to show you that you can do things you never thought you could do or even thought you wanted to do – both professionally and personally.
Thank you for this blog, it really hits home.
(Hubspot has been a real asset to our business)
I’m curious Laurie, what (if you don’t mind) are the things your boss has pushed you to do? I can imagine inbound marketing is one of them…
But either way, I’m so thrilled to hear you’re growing. Keep it up lady!!
Marcus
Marcus, thank you for asking. Yes inbound marketing is one thing. We are in the printing/mailing business, but have expanded to include inbound marketing, web design, etc. We recently held a blogging seminar for our customers. I had the largest role in this and not only did I speak in front of a group, but also we video taped the event (typically don’t like cameras). So now I am starting to do training videos for our website.
Also getting outside of the physical business more for marketing events and meetings. Mostly I am getting a chance at a new side and change to my career. It is both frightening and exciting.
I really enjoy your blog, you are inspiring.
Wow Laurie!! That’s amazing. Seriously, I’m blown away by what you’re doing and if you could see the smile on my face right now you’d know just how happy I am for you!
Marcus…
My first thought is this: Immediate success is often a curse in disguise. Without a unique hunger immediate success can ultimately lead to complacency. The willingness and ability to always look for next opportunity or improvement is a gift… cherish it.
Second Peter Shankman is a testimonial for constantly putting yourself in situations that make you uncomfortable but ultimately a better person…
Thanks!
Ryan H.
Ryan Hanley´s last [type] ..11 Blog Feeds That Will Change the Way You Market Your Business Online
I always love it when you comment on here Ryan, because you bring wisdom of thought, as this quote was awesome.
Personally, I’d never heard of Shankman until yesterday, but the dude was awesome. I mean DANG awesome, and kept me charged for 60 straight minutes.
Thanks so much for all your support Ryan, and have a good weekend buddy.
Marcus
Spot on Mane man. We all need to get a little bit uncomfortable to move forward with success and our lives. It’s currently what I’m personally struggling with, again with doing video for the blog seeing as though I don’t have that many readers yet, so I keep telling myself, why bother?
I know I’m doing it wrong.
Josh Sarz´s last [type] ..8 Most Difficult, Life-Changing Advice, EVER
Josh, keep in mind buddy that I was months and months and months before I seemed to have any readers here myself. So develop your ‘stretch’ habits now. Things like video, personal writing—all the stuff that pushes you outside your comfort zone are necessary to your future success.
So hang in there man. Detach yourself from ‘the numbers’ and just push that personal growth.
I promise things will get better man.
Marcus
Thanks for the kind words Mane man. I’ll keep working on it.
Josh Sarz´s last [type] ..8 Most Difficult, Life-Changing Advice, EVER
Marc and Jay… Y’all are the two most introspective, thought provoking guys I know! I’m ready to push myself too!
You just did by leaving your first blog comment ever Regis!!
Seriously, you rock lady and I’m grateful to know you
Marcus
Great post Marcus! How it occurs to me is that we have to get comfortable with discomfort. And the more we can be with the discomfort (which I know most people resist with everything in them!) the more we can own our creativity. The first few months after I began blogging were some of the most uncomfortable of my life. Now it’s become comfortable.
Good sign it’s time to grow!
Sandi Amorim´s last [type] ..Let Them Eat Cake
we have to get comfortable with discomfort…Yes, that’s exactly it Sandi!
And way to go overcoming your blogging discomfort, that’s GREAT! But I must ask, what’s your next ‘push’?
Marcus
Haha, I’m going away to a silent retreat next week…4 days of being with my discomfort. The next ‘push’ will most likely emerge then
Sandi Amorim´s last [type] ..Let Them Eat Cake
Marcus,
After building a flourishing business over 23+ years and as my friends in Vistage were benefiting from years of their hard work, I decided on cutting off both arms and legs. Changed the business model completely and started with zero revenue again! 23 years later! I did this as our 5 kids were reaching the college expense years. That was the most uncomfortable decision in my life. People thought I had lost it! Regardless of the final outcome, I love what inbound marketing brings and the increase in customer intimacy. I definitely enjoy the challenges each day as I learn!
Even though we have only spoken once, I can’t thank you enough for the inspiration to get out of my comfort zone! Take care!
I stepped out into my discomfort zone a while back and have been busy trying to push through it. Been spending a lot more time trying to ask for help and opportunity in a few places than I used to.
Ahhh yes, boy can I relate to that one Jack. It can be difficult to seek out the help of others, but it’s amazing just how worth it it really is.
Thanks so much for sharing bud,
Marcus
One of the most uncomfortable things I’ve chosen to do? I think getting my MFA falls into that category. I didn’t really grasp what I was doing until my second year in the program (My MFA program typically takes three years to complete.), and, even then, I was uncomfortable. Poetry? Really? I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything, though. They’re partially why I can write the way I do on my blog. Those years also started to get me more outside the introverted zone. I think they’ve made me more likely to pursue more uncomfortable and harder things, too.
Erin Feldman´s last [type] ..Write Right: What’s in a Fragment?
You have an MFA Erin? Sweet
Go girl, and I bet that did force you outside of your comfort zone more than once.
Cool stuff lady, and keep stretching
Marcus
Thanks for your pushing Marcus, I’ve been blogging since July (now have to do so more frequently).
Rob Schermerhorn´s last [type] ..Bleeding Brakes, Do It Yourself!
You rock Rob. Seriously brother, I’m pumped for you.
Timely post this Marcus (as per usual!), because I have recently made rather an uncomfortable decision…I am quitting my secure full time job!
Why? Because life’s too short, and I’m just treading water at the moment. Yes, I may be making a crazy decision, but I’ll always look back with regret if I don’t do this. So why not now? I couldn’t find a good enough answer to that question to stop me.
Tom Ewer´s last [type] ..My Monthly Income & Expenditure Report – October 2011
Quitting Tom?? Seriously? Wow man, you’ve got guts brother, but I’m sure your passion and energy will make all of this work and be worth it as well.
Rock on brother!!
Marcus
The most uncomfortable decision I had to take was leaving my job to start a blog! Wasn’t that difficult and uncomfortable, yes. But one learns much more due to getting exposed to such situations than being behind the veil of a safe and secure job.
Raj´s last [type] ..What is Liveblogging?
No doubt about it Raj. When you’re forced to sink or swim you really learn who you are in that moment!
Thanks for dropping by,
Marcus
I haven’t made a lot of uncomfortable life decisions. Like you I married, then had kids, but I more or less fell into each of those things. Even moving from one state to another was one big adventure. But then recently I decided I wanted to retire. Then I put it off, because I was uncomfortable with the loss of income and the subsequent challenge of putting myself on the spot to perform as an artist rather than just someone who paints in her free time. Then my dear husband was diagnosed with cancer, enabling me to put off that uncomfortable decision. Considering that battling cancer is even more uncomfortable, I think it’s ok to delay my decision until my life is back on a more even keel. But I do have to admit that the discomfort is what is holding me back.
mimi´s last [type] ..Pick of the litter
I don’t know Mimi, I have a feeling you’ve pushed yourself beyond the ‘comfortable’ more than maybe you can even remember.
But I hope these current difficulties you’re having get better and that your life gets back in balance.
Best to you,
Marcus
you know, I think you’re right. It’s just that this is such a big mountain that everything else seems rather petty in comparison even though at the time it seemed insurmountable.
Mimi Torchia Boothby Watercolors´s last [type] ..Pick of the litter
I am a single mother of two and most of the time it is hard for me to leave my comfort zone. I am afraid to take risks because O cannot afford to fail. But you are right. I will never see my full potentials realized if I do not risk it and move away from my comfort zone. Taking a step forward is taking a step away from my comfort zone.
Reese´s last [type] ..Credit Card Usage to Remain High Despite No Fees for Debit Cards
Sounds like you at least know exactly what you need to do Reese, which says a lot. And I’m sure with time you’ll be able to take those steps that will help you the most.
Best to you!
Marcus
Marcus – Great post. Totally fits with how I’m pushing myself as well, so it really resonated. Good to hang out with you a bit a Blog World as well. I’m sharing in my LinkedIn group as a good example of how small businesses have to “get uncomfortable” to market themselves online these days.
Thanks again,
Tom (from LAX)
Tom Treanor´s last [type] ..Google Plus for Business – Guy Kawasaki & Chris Brogan
Hey buddy, it was great meeting you in person at BWLA, and I appreciate all the work you’re doing for business owners and this industry. Keep up the greatness buddy,
Marcus
Amen!
Eugene @ Content Strategy´s last [type] ..Win $1,500 Worth of Free Consulting to Boost Your Business!
Talk about synchronicity Marcus! I just did a blog post on Friday where in my concluding sentences I said: “They say there is no growth without discomfort. I’m prepared to be uncomfortable for a while:)
Coincidence? There seem to be many “coincidences” online these days…topics that many people write about at the same time (unbeknownst to each other), sentiments being expressed, kindred challenges and problems shared. The blogosphere is a wild and crazy ride of synchronicities. (and if there’s no such word, hey…I’ll be uncomfortable with that:) Cheers! Kaarina
Kaarina Dillabough´s last [type] ..An Alphabet of Business Questions and Tips – Letter C
That is so cool Kaarina!! Guess were just on the same wavelength!
Thanks so very much for stopping by,
Marcus
We absolutely need to get out of our comfort zones. Oddly enough the times when I’m stressed out are when I’m at my most productive and efficient. Not that I want to be stressed out all the time, but “stress” really helps us focus. Stress can be a good thing and bring out the best in us.
That is an interesting phenomena, isn’t it Steve? Stress, or at least the right kind, can truly help us reach our potential to greatness.
Keep pushin it my friend,
Marcus
A lot of people do tend to quit or say no whenever a situation would unfold that entails leaving their comfort zones. We usually think that staying within our comfort zones will make us happy – because we’re “comfortable”. The fact is, we won’t ever be truly happy because we are not making the most out of our lives, and we know it. The sad part is, there are people who simply accepts that fact and choose to just be “comfortable”.
That’s right Doc, when we know we’re not reaching our potential, even though we might not want to admit it, it literally eats at us.
Appreciate your comment and hope to see you again!
Marcus
Getting uncomfortable, despite it not feeling nice at all, is where we grow towards our ‘better selves’. I’ve learned this much in life Marcus – at first it was tentative, but I’m slowly realising that these times are necessary to truly live life.
If you want to reach a new country, you’ve got to leave your familiar country behind.
I also applaud Jason for swallowing the fear and signing up for speaking – I’m an introvert too, and if it hasn’t been for my experiences acting onstage in front of hundreds of people, then I would be petrified to speak in front of many. But even though I’ll still be nervous when the time comes, I know I can handle it
Stuart´s last [type] ..Changes, Frustration, And Confessing To Yourself
I know I can handle it.—–Darn straight you can brother.
Keep up the growth my friend and thanks so much for dropping by,
Marcus
I really, really appreciated this post Marcus! Just what the blogging doctor
ordered! Much of my adult life has been spent making uncomfortable decisions; however, I’ve almost asked for that or attracted to it because instinctively I knew it would make me grow. It has, more so on the inside than anything and that is gold to me (no matter how rocky the path).
I’m pretty excited because I’ve derived great energy and excitement from your inspiration, so … this has been a weekend of me doing video again! As well, I’m moving full steam ahead with some great ideas that I’ve been fearful of implementing … until now!
You’re a superior mentor and personal hero to me Marcus. I look forward to one day sharing the WebsitesGiveBack success story and how you’ve been key in making that happen! “Thank you” is really all I can say right now; however that does not nearly suffice.
Abundant kindness to you and yours,
Elena
Elena Patrice´s last [type] ..Is Your Greatness Covered?
I do believe this comment was officially awesome Elena
Actually, the fact that you’ve been moved to action is what makes it awesome 
You’re such a kind lady, and I can’t thank you enough for words like this, as they mean the world.
Have a wonderful week Elena and keep on pushin!
Marcus
Your comfort zone is a trickster. If you allow yourself to stay in it’s confines you are robbing yourself of the great adventure inside of you. The world is full of great opportunities only if you have the courage and strength to leave the black hole of the comfort zone. Don’t
Thanks for a superstar post Marcus.
To expanding comfort zone
Here is a post I wrote called Comfort Zones…The Self–Imposed Exile In Your Life: http://eshaaddy.com/comfort-zones/
‘The black hole of the comfort zone.’….man E’sha, love how you put that!
And yes, to expanding our comfort zones my friend!
Marcus
Just found your site today – good stuff!
Not really a life decision, but I made my first ever cold call this week. I’m not a sales type of person, but I wanted to do a market survey for a new business idea. I was so nervous, I spent 6 hours putting together the pitch and practicing it.
I was definitely uncomfortable.
I practiced the pitch with my wife, my kids (3 & 5), my iPhone (memo recorder) and even on my bike riding to work.
That first call went well and I’ve made several more since then. Now I’m not nervous about it and even enjoy the calls, since it’s a chance to interact with future customers and it’s interesting to learn a bit about how they do business.
This might not sound like a big deal to some people, but for me – it was a big deal.
Mike, this was an awesome story man. Really. I love how you put so much effort into it though, thus giving you the strength to carry through with it, and take that leap of faith in your own skills and abilities.
So glad you’ve found this blog man and I hope you’ll come back again.
Marcus
Wow – the thing I love about reading your stuff Marcus is I always come away with more related stuff to read – in this case I now have 3 more posts to devour (like a Lion).
6-8 months ago I did two things that we, at first, uncomfortable. I put up a little WordPress Blog Installation Page on the blog and started promoting the fact that I would take clients. Secondly, I set up a partnership with a long time friend who lives in the area to do various consulting services like social media management and mobile marketing.
Uncomfortable – yeah, because it was new and I didn’t control everything anymore.
Reward. Yep – clients are racking up (beautiful, wonderful to work with clients) and the prospects Kelly and I have on the horizon are mounting fast.
I’m excited.
I’ll shut up now – I have stuff to read.
Thanks bud for always pushing the bar forward.
Frank Dickinson´s last [type] ..Frank’s #FollowFriday: Joey Strawn (@joey_strawn)
Action my man, all action.
I love comments like these more than any others Frank. Did you have every kink worked out before you launched? Of course not, but you made that puppy fly, and it’s so great to see you experiencing the success that comes with it.
Thrilled for you my friend
Marcus
The most uncomfortable thing I did lately was quit a full-time job without another one lined up so I could explore what I really wanted to do. I took 3 months to explore, reflect and rest.
Was it hard? Yes. I experienced a whole range of emotion–terror, exhilaration, peace, excitement. I’m still working to regain my financial footing. If I were to do it again, I’d stash away more funds to ease the transition. Lessons learned.
Was it worth it? TOTALLY. It absolutely changed my perspective on my life, my work and my goals. Everyone should consider the benefits of leaving a less-than-desirable job and allowing things to unfold naturally. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!
Wow Nancy! Way to stretch yourself and find a new ‘you’. I’m impressed!
Thanks so much for stopping by,
marcus
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