Dare To Be Uncomfortable

As I reflect on my journey so far, through personal and professional outlooks, I can’t help but recognize that to gain success the paradox is being comfortable with being uncomfortable. Specifically, how the moments of discomfort have pushed me into the resilient, accountable, and go-getter person I am today. My childhood house went under foreclosure my sophomore year of high school and it wasn’t until my junior year of college that my family entered homeownership again. Although, during those years I experienced a multitude of obstacles attached to not having a basic need of a permanent address, the discomfort led the drive and passion to position myself in places I once thought were out of reach. 

From working multiple jobs I learned how to manage my time, prioritize responsibilities, and create resiliency of setting goals and accomplishing them. I always knew I wanted to study abroad, however, the logistics of making that happen were becoming impossible. However, meticulous planning, immense curiosity of the fashion industry, and long work shifts, along with late night study sessions, allowed me to achieve such a goal. Not only did financial instability enable the freedoms associated with becoming financially independent, but pushed the boundaries of my problem solving skills. Being once uncomfortable with the idea of fully supporting myself became the reason for immense growth. 

Overall, one must be uncomfortable to then dive into developing new skills, become innovative, and reach new heights of success. Growth stems from the uncertainty of the journey we call life. Through constantly moving to various living situations, I have learned to adapt quickly to circumstances and strengthen my communication skills to advocate for myself. All walks of life are different, however, the discomfort zone is where one personally and professionally develops.