When was the last time you left your comfort zone?

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.

I heard that quote when I started yoga teacher training last year, and it’s really stuck with me since then. Almost everything good in my life is a direct result of taking a chance and stepping out of my comfort zone. Isn’t that crazy? Moving back to Chicago was out of my comfort zone. Starting a blog was out of my comfort zone. Meeting new people, putting myself out there, admitting that I have SO much more to learn every day… all of that is very much outside of my comfort zone. It really boggles my mind when I lay it all out like that. What if I was still struggling in New York wondering why I wasn’t happy?

But seriously, take a look at your life right now. What are you most proud of? What makes your heart beat a little faster? Is there anything that makes you stand a little bit taller or smile a little bit bigger? Was a risk involved? Yup, thought so.

Believe it or not, Carmex is the reason I asked myself these questions. Yes, the lip care company! Turns out, while they want your lips to be in the “comfort zone” – they encourage the rest of you to get out of that zone! Personal growth is important to them as a company and they understand that the more comfortable you are with yourself, the more willing you will be to try new experiences. Amen amen AMEN!

Top: c/o Reebok | Bra: c/o 444 Evergreen | Pants: Outdoor Voices | Jacket: c/o Nike | Bag: c/o Under Armour | Lip Balm: Carmex | Shoes: c/o Teysha (<– such a cool company!)

But since this is a workout look, let’s focus on the fitness part of your comfort zone for a second. You guys have heard me say this over and over, but I am not naturally athletic. I grew up thinking I wouldn’t ever really have a good relationship with my body. If I only knew what was comin for me! So, just in case you’re afraid to start, or step up, your fitness journey – here area few of my tips for getting out of your comfort zone:

Try everything!

There are a few reasons why my perspective with fitness shifted… and a lot of it was because I (you guessed it) took a step out of my comfort zone! It was so important for me to try different workouts to figure out what resonated with me. Fitness isn’t, and shouldn’t be, a one-size-fits-all type deal. If your goal is to establish a healthy relationship with your body, it’s all about figuring out what feels good TO YOU. Get out there and test em out!

Never stop learning.

If you find one particular practice that works for you, learn as much as you can about it! For me, finally doing Yoga Teacher Training was not as much about a new career venture, as it was about deepening my practice. I’ve loved yoga for over 10 years now, so to finally learn about it’s origins and philosophies was amazing!
Now think for a second… it would have been easier to read a few books at home and call it a day, but I’m SO glad I didn’t do that! Instead, I committed the time to physically be there. I put myself out there amongst a group of strangers. I admitted the things I didn’t know yet and opened my mind so I could understand better. The lessons I learned from showing up to each session go far beyond physical yoga. I learned life lessons there. And even though I’m not currently teaching, I know once I figure out my work/blog/life balance, I’ll come back to it.

Appreciate what you’ve got.

And last but not least, I always encourage everyone to take at least one hot yoga class in just a sports bra. You want me to do WHAT?! Yup, you heard me! You don’t have to start class that way or flaunt yourself around the studio. But once your body starts to sweat, ditch the shirt. Chances are no one in that dim room is looking at you! Give your skin a chance to breathe. Appreciate your muscles when they stretch and your rolls when you bend. Really see and feel the body you are trying to strengthen. You may think I’m totally crazy, but it feels incredibly liberating and I challenge each of you to try it.

And while you’re popping out of your comfort zone, Carmex will be there! Their Comfort Care Lip Balms are my personal favorites. They’re perfect for before and/or after your work out and fit right into your gym bag, your work bag or even your weekend/going out bag! And these flavors are SO perfect for summer. Hello watermelon!

So what are you going to do to get out of your comfort zone?

Is something holding you back at work? Do you need to put yourself out there more in your personal life?

Or do you need to get your booty in gear and try out a new class? When was the last time you tried to get upside down?!

No matter what is on your mind – fitness, work or personal – take that risk and go after what you want.

YOU GOT THIS!

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This post was sponsored by Carmex, but (as always) all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Lake Shore Lady possible!