Blog
Being Uncomfortable
Comfort is an important issue to many people in Western society. Large portions of the population place a lot of value on leading lives that are filled with the comforts of modern times. Yet, one thing seems to escape those who are so consumed with this quest. It is the fact that being uncomfortable is a major motivator for change and growth. Without it, stagnation, resignation and lack of motivation arise.
When speaking with patients about this subject, we frequently offer the reminder that “the only place being comfortable gets you is on the couch.” The premise behind this statement is that the desire to be comfortable will only lead to a sedentary state of being. Spending time on the couch is certainly not a bad thing, as we all need some down time, but it’s important to note that having a primary desire to be comfortable can potentially inhibit one’s ability for development and growth.
How uncomfortable are you willing to be?
A question that might be asked of each person is just how uncomfortable he or she is willing to be—with the understanding that discomfort can lead to great change. In order to better understand the context of this question, it’s important to take a step back, look at your surroundings and take note of the environment you have created. Then, look inward and start to analyze your emotions, behaviors, and decisions. This is a great opportunity to take stock of the direction in which your life is headed, and to consider whether that path is one that will lead to fulfillment and happiness.
Being uncomfortable is not a permanent experience. Yet, when we feel this way, there is often the fear that it will last for a long time (and maybe forever.) This is an important point—one that is worth being repeated and emphasized. Just because you feel uncomfortable now doesn’t mean it will last forever; rest assured that things will evolve. When this train of thought floats through your mind, you will have an opportunity to counter it, to remember that this is only a temporary situation that can—and will—change as time progresses.
It has been said that “perspective is reality.” What that means is that the way you perceive life is the way it will become. More often than not this is the case. So, if you believe that being uncomfortable is a bad thing, then it will be so. Instead of making that connection, view this as an opportunity to redefine what discomfort means to you. You can now look at it as a positive (and temporary) state of being, one that can help you remove limitations and make necessary changes in your life.
Life is full of peaks and valleys; and while it would be nice to lead a calm, peaceful and harmonious existence all the time, this is simply not possible. The next time you find yourself feeling uncomfortable, be grateful that you are now being given a chance to change your perspective and circumstances. The choice is yours; make the most of it.
