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#69 The Donut
When my son was thirteen he went away to summer camp. It was the first time in his life that he was away from home. Designed for boys who would soon be young men, the camp’s mission was to create self-reliance by challenging existing boundaries and limitations mentally, physically and emotionally. It was a two-week camping and sailing course without much in the way of amenities. One fork, one bowl, bathrooms were optional. At orientation the visions and expectations for these soon to be young men were outlined. Talk of the comfort zone was first on the list.
The talk began by picturing a donut (let’s remember these were thirteen year old boys). The comfort zone was the middle hole where it was safe, comfortable and predictable. Beyond the outside edge of the donut was the danger zone filled with panic and fear. The middle area, the donut itself, was the place to be. Here, life was challenging and nonthreatening. Here, activities stretched one’s sense of accomplishment leaving more questions than answers. Living life between the comfort zone and the danger zone created rewarding experiences.
Recently, I kept a promise I made to my son ten years ago. I was going to learn to ski. The first lesson was terrifying for me. I was definitely out of my comfort zone and beyond the outside edge of the donut. The second lesson proved more enjoyable. I moved from the outside edge to the donut middle. By the end of the second lesson I was able to get off the ski lift without falling and had better control of my skis. I had fun. As frightening as it was in the beginning, getting out of my comfort zone was the best thing I could have done for myself.
Here’s to the Health of your Life.