"Je pense que c’est une partie de votre évolution d’être inconfortable, d’être exposé, d’être vulnérable"

Being uncomfortable, exposed, and vulnerable is all part of growing as a person. It's like when you're learning to ride a bike—at first, it feels weird and scary. You're unsure and probably a little wobbly. But each fall and scrape teaches you something. You get a bit better, a bit more confident, and eventually, you’re zooming down the street without a second thought. That's evolution in action.

In history, countless figures have highlighted the importance of embracing discomfort. Take, for example, the famous civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. He often spoke about how struggle and tension were necessary for growth and change. It wasn’t easy for him or his followers, but by putting themselves in vulnerable positions, they were able to push society forward in monumental ways.

Now, let’s bring it back to you. Imagine you’ve always wanted to start your own business. The idea of quitting your stable job, investing your savings, and diving into the unknown is terrifying. You’ll have moments of self-doubt and nights when you can’t sleep because you’re worried about failing. But by putting yourself in that uncomfortable position, you’re giving yourself the opportunity to grow. Each challenge you face, each hurdle you overcome, makes you stronger and more resilient. You’re evolving.

Here’s a practical example: Let’s talk about Robyn. She was a software engineer with a cushy job but always dreamed of writing a novel. The thought of leaving her 9-to-5 to follow a passion seemed ludicrous. But she took the leap. The first few months were tough—financial worries, writer’s block, and the constant fear of not being good enough. But she kept at it. She joined writers' groups, took constructive criticism, and allowed herself to be vulnerable by sharing her work with others. Eventually, she published her first book, and it was a hit. If she hadn’t embraced that initial discomfort, she’d still be at her old job, dreaming of a different life.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by recognizing that feeling uncomfortable is a sign you’re on the right path. It means you’re stepping out of your comfort zone. When you feel that nervous energy, don’t shy away. Lean into it. Take small steps at first. If you’re scared of public speaking, start by talking in front of a small group of friends before working your way up to larger audiences. Each step you take in that uncomfortable space is a step toward your own evolution.

Let’s paint a relatable picture. Think about Jane, who’s always been terrified of swimming. She never learned as a child and avoided pools and beaches. One summer, she decided it was time to confront her fear. She signed up for swimming lessons. The first few weeks were hard. She felt exposed, flailing around in the shallow end while kids swam laps around her. She wanted to quit, but she stuck with it. Gradually, she became more comfortable in the water. By the end of the summer, she wasn’t just swimming—she was diving and doing laps with a confidence she never imagined. Her discomfort transformed into a newfound strength and joy.

In the end, it’s about embracing that awkward, uneasy feeling. It's a sign you're growing, learning, and moving forward. So next time you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, remember—this is your evolution. Embrace it.