Is Comfort Hindering Your Progress?

Have you ever felt your routine might be holding you back from your desired growth?

 A few months ago, that was me.

This week, we'll explore how I broke out of my comfort zone and embraced a challenging personal growth journey, as well as the leadership lessons I've learned.

TL;DR

→ Embracing discomfort: The key to personal and leadership growth
→ 75 Hard Challenge: A rigorous program pushing physical and mental limits
→ Three key leadership lessons: Consistency, adaptability, and resilience
→ Real-world example: IBM's Corporate Service Corps and its impact on leadership development

"Today, I will do what others won't, so tomorrow, I can accomplish what others can't." — Jerry Rice.

I heard this quote for the first time a few months back. It hit me hard.

Life had gotten comfortable, and anything outside of my routines started to feel... well, uncomfortable. But here's the thing—growth doesn't happen in comfort zones. I realized I'd fallen into that trap. I was in good shape but not great.

In my 40s, maintaining fitness wasn't as easy as it once was. When I checked my Apple Watch and saw my fitness level had been below average for the last year, it was a wake-up call. That's when I knew I needed to shake things up and embrace discomfort to grow again.

So, I took on the 75 Hard Challenge—a strict program designed to push limits.

Here's What It Involves:

✅ Two 45-minute workouts (one outdoors)

💧 1 gallon (3.8 litres) of water daily

🍽 No cheat meals

🚫 No alcohol

📖 Read 10 pages of a nonfiction book daily

It's intense and requires discipline.

I'm currently at Day 35 and going strong. I'm determined to finish the 75 days and maybe keep going until the end of the year.

Surprisingly, I'm enjoying the process! The structure, accountability, and daily grind have been invigorating.

As I've progressed through this challenge, I've identified three key leadership lessons:

1. Consistency Breeds Excellence: The challenge demands an unwavering commitment to daily tasks, reinforcing the importance of consistent leadership behaviours.

2. Adaptability is Crucial: Balancing these rigorous requirements with a busy schedule has honed my ability to adapt quickly—a vital skill in today's fast-paced business environment.

3. Resilience Through Adversity: Pushing through physical and mental barriers has strengthened my resilience, enabling me to lead more effectively during challenging times.

Just as I've learned through my journey, organizations like IBM push their leaders beyond their comfort zones to foster growth and development.

Real-World Case Study: IBM's Corporate Service Corps

IBM's Corporate Service Corps (CSC) program exemplifies how experiential learning can develop future leaders while benefiting communities. Launched in 2008, CSC sends high-potential employees to emerging markets to work on community-driven projects.

Key Outcomes:

• Over 4,000 IBM employees have participated in nearly 1,300 projects across 40 countries.

• Participants reported a 90% improvement in leadership skills.

• The program has enhanced IBM's brand recognition while addressing community needs.

The CSC illustrates how organizations can effectively integrate corporate social responsibility with leadership development, pushing employees beyond their comfort zones to foster growth – much like the 75 Hard Challenge does on a personal level.

Emerging Trend: Holistic Leadership Development

The success of similar challenges to the 75 Hard Challenges shows a growing trend in leadership development: holistic approaches that integrate physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Organizations increasingly recognize that leaders prioritizing their health can inspire their teams to do the same.

Resource Recommendation

"Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins offers potent insights into pushing past perceived limits and developing mental toughness.

If you haven't read this book yet, make sure you do. You will be inspired and reminded of the incredible power of the body and mind. I have no doubt there will be a movie about him one day. But who else can play David Goggins?

Conclusion

As I navigate the second half of the 75 Hard Challenge, I'm reminded that leadership is a continuous growth and self-discovery journey. This week, identify one area of your leadership that could benefit from increased consistency or resilience.

Challenge yourself: What discomfort are you embracing for growth? 

For example, could you commit to a daily 6:00 AM wake-up for focused work or perhaps take on a public speaking engagement outside your comfort zone?

Until next time, keep pushing your boundaries and leading from the front!

Chris March

P.S. Interested in elevating your leadership? Let’s discuss how we can make that happen. I’m only taking on two more clients until the end of 2024. If you’re ready, reach out for 1:1 coaching here.

P.P.S. Welcome to everyone new to The Leading Edge community this week. Thank you for trusting me and for your time and attention. I appreciate you being here!