Leaving My Comfort Zone

During my last job search, I was up for a director of communications position at an exclusive private girls’ school on the Main Line. For those who don’t know, The Main Line is a section of the Philadelphia suburbs right outside of the city. It is home to some of the wealthiest communities in the country.

I had several interviews with the administrators, and in the final round, I learned I was one of two people being considered. In the end, I lost.

But I also won. A few weeks later, the school was under fire for systemic racism on campus. As the communications director, I would have quickly found myself in the middle of a publicity crisis. So, I dodged a bullet and decided that not getting the job was meant to be.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve received a few rejection emails from different organizations. Instead of getting upset, I’ve decided that the outcome was meant to be. While I’m not a big believer in what people say is “G-d’s plan,” I do feel like I’m being pulled in a different direction. I have been sitting on my ideas and dreams for a long time and have decided that now is the time to make those things happen. I’m not ready to share anything just yet, but things are in the works. For the first time, I’m listening to my heart and gut and know that I will land on my feet.

In the meantime, the flexible schedule is nice, and I’m also working toward several professional certificates. I’m still applying for jobs while keeping up with social media trends and nonprofit marketing strategies. Even though I’m not working full-time, I’m investing in ways to improve myself so that I am prepared when called upon to share my expertise.

Meanwhile, I am focused on one of my quote cards that reads, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” If that is the case, here I am. I’m at the border, ready to step out. I’m excited to be here. I’m leaving my safe space to meet new people and learn what life still has to offer. I’ve already met some folks who have welcomed me into the fold. I know there are more who want to share their dreams with me and see how we can support one another. I can’t wait to meet them.

It’s a little stressful. The term “comfort zone” was coined by a businessman who believed that to achieve high performance, one has to experience a certain amount of stress. Well, over the last six months, that box has certainly been checked off multiple times. But then, I think about how it will look when I’m successful again on my terms.

I’m looking forward to it.

Have you ever been at the end of your comfort zone? Were you excited? Nervous? What was it like for you there?

XO,

Elisa