You may do challenging things, but how are you at loving outside your comfort zone?

“I don’t know if I can do this,” one of the ladies in our group said.

“Take your time,” the guide assured her, “I know you’re outside your comfort zone.”

We stood at the top of a waterfall that plunged 120 feet to the ground. Our goal? Rappel over the edge.

“Aren’t you scared?” Pedro asked.

“Not really,” I answered. “I did this on a backpacking trip as a kid. We had a blast.”

“I really don’t want to go first,” the lady said.

“No problem.” The guide turned to the rest of us. “Is there anyone else who’d like to go first?”

No one answered, so I raised my hand. Normally, I don’t offer to go first, but I volunteered since rappelling wasn’t outside my comfort zone. Don’t get me wrong; my core still tingled when I stepped backward over the edge. My heart skipped a beat when I swung too fast toward the wall of granite. But I loved every minute of the experience.

One by one, the rest of the group completed the descent. Some shaking the entire time, others hooting in excitement. I overheard another couple chatting as they took off their harnesses.

“I’m hooked! When can we go again?” the woman asked.

“Hmmm, you can go again, and I’ll watch,” the man said.

“You survived going out of your comfort zone once,” she cajoled, “maybe you’ll have more fun the second time.”

“Let’s just say I’m not ready to try again anytime soon,” he answered. “But I’m happy to watch you!”

In today’s podcast, I give three hacks for loving outside your comfort zone. They might seem normal for some and impossible for others (especially introverts). I urge you to try them all and let me know what ones you’ll need to practice more often and which seem easy.

Take five minutes to watch this video. You’ll be glad you did.

Some people find it easy to step in and defend the underdog. Others need practice and a game plan. Next week I’ll share six ways you can help stop a verbal attack—a great way to love outside your comfort zone!

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