Finding Joy in the Uncomfortable

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Hawkeye FamilyTwo weeks ago we packed up our SUV, dressed our two boys (5 and 2 1/2) in Hawkeye gear, and headed east for a day full of family and football. Can I tell you a secret? I was dreading this trip. The few days leading up to the trip had been hard at our house – the boys had spent most of their time fighting and picking at each other. And the whining. Oh, the whining. As we were pulling out of the driveway I had a pit in my stomach and felt like maybe this whole trip was a big mistake.

We arrived in Iowa City and spent the morning tailgating with my parents and then headed to the stadium to watch the game. To my surprise, the children were well behaved and polite, and we had the absolute best time as a family. We spent the night in Iowa City, and after a fun and enjoyable breakfast at a local favorite, we headed home. On the ride home, not only did I feel relaxed, but I also felt happy and so, so glad that we went and enjoyed that time together.

Doesn’t it seem like that is the way life works, though? Some of the best stuff comes out of being uncomfortable – being outside of your comfort zone – and doing something that you might be hesitant or afraid to do for whatever reason.

working outSix weeks ago I started a fitness program. The workouts are cross fit style and admittedly a little intimidating at first glance. My first thought was, There is NO way I can do this! I thought about all the different excuses I could use as to why this program was not a good fit for me, how I needed something easier. Somehow, I mustered up the courage to do that first workout and I have not looked back since. Was I uncomfortable? You bet I was! Was I self-conscious? You have no idea! But someway, somehow I pulled it together and just did it. The joy and pride (and results) I have seen from that initial discomfort is something I never could have predicted.

So Mommas, I challenge you to take that fitness class you are afraid of, go on that family trip that you think might be too much work, apply for that job you don’t know if you are qualified for, start that Etsy business you have been thinking about…. Just try whatever it is that makes you feel uncomfortable and gives you that pit in your stomach. You will not always succeed, and that is just fine, because even in failure there is growth. Many times, however, you will not just succeed – you will surpass your own expectations just by taking that step from the comfortable to the uncomfortable. You will find joy you did not know was possible, and you will soar.

When is a time you have found joy in the uncomfortable?

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