Growth often lies just beyond our comfort zone. Learning to accept discomfort is the first step towards becoming the best version of your midlife self.

Shift Your Mindset: View discomfort as a sign of growth, not something to be avoided. Discomfort often means you’re challenging yourself and pushing your boundaries, which is how progress is made. Reframe your thinking around discomfort from “This is bad” to “This is exciting because it means I’m learning and growing.”

Start Small: Don’t jump straight into the deep end. Instead, ease yourself into discomfort by taking small steps outside your comfort zone. This could involve trying a new food, joining a club you’re interested in, or striking up a conversation with someone new. As you get more comfortable with these smaller challenges, you can gradually take on bigger ones.

Focus on the Why: Remind yourself of the reason you’re stepping outside your comfort zone. What are you hoping to achieve? Having a clear goal in mind will help you stay motivated when things get uncomfortable.

Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small. When you step outside your comfort zone, even in a small way, take a moment to celebrate your accomplishment. This will help you build confidence and make it more likely that you’ll continue to challenge yourself.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself when you feel uncomfortable. It’s normal to feel nervous or scared when you’re trying something new. Just remind yourself that everyone feels discomfort sometimes, and that it’s a sign that you’re growing.