Do you sometimes lack the courage to do something new? Oftentimes, people get stuck in a rut because they fear failure and/or rejection, so they keep repeating the same old things. Maybe they stay in the same job (that they aren’t happy with), live in the same area, or remain in a negative relationship because these environments, activities, and people make them feel safe. They become paralyzed by all the things that could go wrong if they make a change and don’t think about what could go right. Ultimately, they talk themselves out of getting out of having the courage to try something new.
I am hard on myself a lot in my writing but one thing I can say is that I have never been afraid to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. I felt a continued nudge to write about my challenges and did it knowing that I would be rejected by some in the process. I’m not a spring chicken and it’s late in life to be making career changes, but I recently made the decision to leave a job because it wasn’t serving me well – and didn’t have anything definite lined up. But God had my back and led me to another opportunity without missing a beat.
So, what’s the point here? If the courage to do something new doesn’t come easy for you, here are five things you can try:
- Change your mindset to focus on what could go right and the opportunities and challenges doing something new might bring.
- Pray and ask God to open up new opportunities for you. When He does, move out of your comfort zone and do it!
- Take baby steps. Not ready to make a big change? Take baby steps towards the new opportunity. Maybe there are some smaller things that you can do before you fully commit to the “new thing”.
- Remember that God is with you and will help you – “Fear not, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10).
- Reach out to trusted friends, family, or clergy for advice, support, and prayer.
Here is some biblical encouragement to step out in courage:
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here.
2 Corinthians 5
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning.
Lamentations 3:22-23
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God…
Psalm 40:3
REFLECTION
Is there something new that you feel you should explore? If so, consider it and take steps to do it afraid!
