Although many of us most easily recognize risk in its physical form, it can also be emotional and intellectual in nature. Every one of us has a different tolerance for risk, and we all have a different starting point when it comes to facing different risks. This applies to relationships, business and life in general.
When we face risk, we learn about ourselves. We may learn what our limitations are but, most importantly, we learn about what our limitations ARE NOT. This can free us to try new things and to be more successful than we were before.
To learn about ourselves we must leave our “comfort zone” and go to a place that is new. However, if we venture too far out of this zone, we enter the “panic zone”, a place where the surge of adrenalin will fog our minds and paralyze our muscles.
For best learning we want to venture into the challenge zone, that sweet spot between comfort and panic where we can stretch ourselves in productive ways.
When you find yourself in a situation that seems uncomfortable for any reason you are likely stepping outside your comfort zone. When this happens we should Pause, Reflect and Respond.
Pause: stop and take a deep breath to center and calm yourself.
Reflect: take a look at what is happening, what you believe to be true versus what you know to be true.
Respond: Chose the action that will get you the best long term results.
Using this simple strategy will help you meet challenge effectively and learn in your challenge zone.
Tags: challenge, change management, communication, goal setting, leadership, Motivation, reward, risk, risk taking, team development, teamwork