Goal-setting Pro Tips

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was far more than the wife of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. She was a force in her own right: a humanitarian, an activist for diverse social causes, and a writer.

Eleanor transformed the role of “America’s First Lady,” as well as the opinion of women in the public limelight.

Eleanor spoke her mind during press conferences, wrote a newspaper column, traveled, and even visited American troops abroad in WWII.

She has also voiced her support for women’s rights, children’s issues, helping the poor, and race discrimination.  Eleanor did this all while raising six children.

While her words and actions are controversial, Eleanor Roosevelt is remembered as one of America’s most influential women leaders.

Roosevelt's outsized influence continues to make its mark today, particularly with her most famous sentiment: 

Do one thing every day that scares you.

Comfort Zone

Getting out of your comfort zone is essential for growth. 

A comfort zone is “a behavioral state within which a person operates in an anxiety-neutral condition.”

To put it simply, a comfort zone means no change in anxiety, which means no change in the level of performance.

In a 1908 Harvard study by Robert M. Yerkes and John D. Dodson, results showed that anxiety can increase the level of performance, but too much anxiety has the opposite effect.

It’s important to find a balance where you have optimal anxiety, which can pave the way to the peak of your productivity and performance.

Take the Risk

Staying in your comfort zone reduces your productivity and in turn, your motivation.

Take the risk and be unstoppable.

Find that optimal state of anxiety and reach your peak. As Roosevelt says, 

You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.

Getting out of your comfort zone can open up great opportunities.

Dr. Brene Brown, a research professor on vulnerability, found that

Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity.

By acknowledging your vulnerability and facing your challenges in a controlled manner, you prepare for unexpected changes when forced out of your comfort zone.

With each action you make, you gain valuable experience.

Find something you’ve never tried before and don’t be afraid to take that first step.