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Thoughtfully approaching discomfort opens up opportunities for growth, transformation, and change.

Approaching anxiety-provoking situations builds confidence that can transfer to other parts of life.

Anxiety and fear can drop us into the present moment, which creates a sense of vitality and engagement.

What might be waiting for you on the other side of fear?

I recently found myself running across Zion National Park, completing the epic Zion Traverse in one day: a 38-mile, point-to-point route that transects the entirety of the western part of the park.

Around mile 36, I had pulverized feet, a body struggling with dehydration and loss of appetite, and grappled with the question as to why I chose to do this to myself – and why I consider this type of “Type II fun” experience to be, well, enjoyable.

While ultrarunning may not be everyone’s cup of tea, humans have an ongoing flirtation with fear and anxiety. This might take the form of rollercoasters, horror movies, BASE jumping, Toastmasters, or going on a first date.

What can be gained by willingly seeking out discomfort, and why do we do it?

The Comfort Zone Isn’t Static

When we repeatedly seek out experiences that push the limits of what feels comfortable and familiar, we may experience anxiety at first – but then a process called habituation unfolds.

Habituation occurs when we become familiar with a........

© Psychology Today