Comfort Zone is Your Enemy (Even if It Feels Cozy)

Entry 1:6

When I started my first business, I did everything except the one thing that scared me most: actually putting myself out there and learning how to get out of my comfort zone in business. The thought of saying, “Hey world, I just started this business! Not totally sure what I’m doing, but come buy from me!” made me want to crawl under my desk.

So instead, I filled my time with busywork. I spent countless hours tweaking my website, designing brochures, printing business cards—basically hiding behind a screen, hoping clients would magically start knocking on my door. They didn’t. Someday, I’ll share photos from the vault—they still make me cringe! But it’s amazing to see the comparison between then and now, and to recognize how much progress I’ve made, both personally and professionally.

One day it finally clicked: if I wanted people knocking on my door, I had to start knocking on theirs. So, I put on my big-girl pants, grabbed a stack of flyers, some business cards, and even a tray of free cookies and started walking into local businesses to introduce myself. I was sweating through my shirt the entire time, but you know what? It worked.

I started meeting people, making connections in my community, and eventually joined multiple networking groups. Before I knew it, my business finally started to grow.

What I learned is this: sometimes all it takes is a little faith, a deep breath, and a tiny kick in the butt to get moving. On the other side of that fear is where the magic happens. So get going, mama—this is your time. If you’ve been wondering how to get out of your comfort zone in business, trust me—you’re not alone, and it’s way less scary than it feels.

The comfort zone is like your favorite fuzzy blanket. It’s warm, it’s safe, it’s familiar. It’s where Netflix marathons and pumpkin spiced latte refills live. And honestly, sometimes it feels really good to stay wrapped up in it (I still find myself there sometimes).

But here’s the tough truth: nothing truly amazing grows in the comfort zone.

Every big leap you’ve ever taken in your life—whether it was becoming a Mom, starting your business, saying “yes” to a new opportunity, or even just posting your first “Hey world, I’m starting this thing!” announcement—came with nerves. And yet, those nerves were exactly what led you to growth.

As Boss Mama CEOs, our job isn’t to play small or stay cozy. It’s to stretch, grow, and build the kind of businesses (and lives!) we dream about. And that means stepping out of that pretty little bubble we’ve built.

So let’s go!!

What Exactly Is the Comfort Zone?

Think of your comfort zone like your favorite coffee shop where the barista already knows your order. You don’t even need to look at the menu—you just slip into autopilot. It feels safe because it’s predictable.

But here’s the danger: predictability can turn into stagnation.

In business and motherhood, staying too long in the comfort zone can mean:

• Sticking to what feels easy, instead of what moves the needle.
• Saying “someday” to your dream because today feels too busy.
• Avoiding risks that might lead to growth because they feel scary.

And let’s be honest—it’s a sneaky trap. You feel productive when you’re “researching” or “planning” (hello, color-coded Trello boards and 14 Pinterest boards full of inspiration 👋), but if you’re not taking action? That’s comfort zone procrastination dressed up as busyness.

Why the Comfort Zone is the Enemy

I know, I know—it feels dramatic to call it the “enemy.” But if you’re serious about building your dream business and creating a life you’re obsessed with, learning how to get out of your comfort zone in business is exactly what will help you break through and grow.

Here’s why:

1. The Comfort Zone Tricks You Into Thinking You’re Busy

When I first started working on my business, I spent weeks designing the perfect Canva graphics, reorganizing my office, and tweaking my website font. Guess what? None of those things actually brought in clients. 🙃 I thought making everything look pretty and perfect was going to win me business—but turns out, nobody really cares about that at the beginning.

That was my comfort zone talking. It whispered, “You’re being productive,” when really I was just avoiding the scarier stuff—like putting myself out there.

Action step for you: Ask yourself today, “Am I working on tasks that move me forward, or tasks that just feel safe?”

2. The Comfort Zone Keeps You From Taking Risks

Risks = growth. No risks = same place, same results. Period.

I’ll never forget the first time I sent a pitch email to a potential collaboration partner. My palms were sweaty. My brain screamed, “What if they think I’m silly?” But here’s the thing: they said YES. And that single yes opened the door to opportunities I never could have planned for.

If I had stayed safe in my comfort zone, I’d still be rearranging my desk instead of building a brand that connected with amazing people.

Action step for you: This week, pick one “risky” thing to try—maybe it’s sending a pitch, asking a mentor out for coffee, going live on Instagram, or finally sharing your idea with friends and family.

3. The Comfort Zone Stalls Your Dreams

That podcast you want to start? That Etsy shop you’ve been dreaming about? That coaching program? They’ll never launch if you’re waiting to “feel ready.”

Here’s a little secret: you will never feel fully ready. Even the most successful entrepreneurs still get butterflies before a big move. The difference is—they act anyway.

I remember when I launched my event planning business. I kept telling myself, “I’ll wait until I have more time/money/experience.” But one day, I realized waiting was just my comfort zone trying to keep me “safe.” So, I hit publish on my website and off I went.

And you know what? The world didn’t end. In fact, it got better. I met some pretty amazing people along the way, planned events for some incredible couples and companies, and built the confidence to follow my dreams and step into things that I never thought I’d do…like start a blog.  

Action step for you: Write down one dream you’ve been sitting on. Then ask yourself, “What’s the smallest first step I can take this week to move it forward?”

How to Break Up with Your Comfort Zone

Okay, so we’ve officially called the comfort zone out for what it is: the sneaky dream-stealer. Now let’s talk about how to break up with it (without crying into our pumpkin spiced lattes).

Here are four ways to step outside of it:

1. Do One Scary Thing a Day

You don’t need to jump out of a plane or quit your job tomorrow. Baby steps count. Hit “post” on the reel. Reach out to that potential client. Attend that networking event. Sign up for the webinar.

Example: When I first shared videos of myself on Instagram, my voice shook the entire time. But after the first one, the second felt a little easier. By the tenth? I actually had fun with it.

Scary things get less scary with practice.

2. Reframe Failure as Feedback

Failure isn’t proof you’re not good enough—it’s feedback. Every flop is just data for your next attempt.

Example: The first brand I launched was a total flop. Like, crickets chirping in the background flop. People had no clue what I actually did, and I couldn’t exactly blame them—I wasn’t clear myself! The old me would’ve curled up with a pint of ice cream and declared I wasn’t cut out for business. But instead, I asked, “Okay, what’s the lesson here?” Turns out, I had skipped the whole “market research” thing (oops). So, I rebranded, relaunched, and this time the feedback was amazing. Suddenly people got it—and business finally started picking up.

Action step: Next time something doesn’t work out, instead of asking “Why did I fail?” ask “What did this teach me?”

3. Surround Yourself With Expanders

You know how kids play up to the level of the kids around them? Same goes for us. If you’re only around people who play it safe, you’ll keep playing it safe.

Example: The first time I joined a local networking group, I was completely blown away. Hearing their stories and watching their courage made me realize I wasn’t dreaming big enough. Their bravery pushed me to take bigger leaps, and it felt so good to finally be surrounded by other like-minded women just out here trying to do the dang thing.

We were all feeling the same nerves and hesitations, but we were in it together—which made it a whole lot less scary. For the first time, I didn’t feel so alone. And let’s be real—building a business by yourself can get lonely. Having people you look up to, who double as sounding boards and cheerleaders, truly changes the game.

So, find your expanders—whether it’s a mastermind, networking group, or even podcasts from people who inspire you. During the pandemic, I hopped on Clubhouse and not only joined other group chats but also started my own. It was a huge success, and people loved it! Find what works for you, and run with it.

4. Celebrate Every Step

Stepping outside your comfort zone deserves recognition. Too often, we move the goalpost. We accomplish one big scary thing, and instead of celebrating, we just ask, “What’s next?”

Mama, pause and celebrate. Reward yourself for the bold moves (yes, even the tiny ones), because that celebration will build momentum for your next leap. Maybe it’s grabbing that pumpkin spice latte you’ve been craving, treating yourself to a manicure, or even closing your devices for some one-on-one time with your kiddos. Don’t forget to celebrate—you earned it!

Boss Mama Pep Talk

Here’s what I want you to remember:

The comfort zone might be cute, but it’s not where your empire gets built. The moment I stepped out of mine, everything shifted—my business doubled in size, I was featured in over 10 publications (including print!), I built a trusted network I could lean on for anything my business needed, and I formed relationships that will last a lifetime. That’s the true power of stepping out of your comfort zone in business.

Shameless plug: you can check out one of my features here!

Every single time you step out—even just a little—you’re proving to yourself (and your kiddos who are watching 👀) that courage beats comfort every single time.

Growth lives on the other side of discomfort. And the only way to reach your next level—whether it’s doubling your business income, launching your next offer, or just finally posting that idea you’ve been sitting on— is by learning how to get out of your comfort zone in business. That’s where the magic happens.

So, tell me: what’s one bold move you’re making today?

✨ Boss Mama CEO challenge: Comment or email me with your “one scary thing” for the week. Let’s cheer each other on as we step out of cozy and into unstoppable.

Here’s to all the incredible Moms juggling a million things—keep shining bright, cheering each other on, and building the life you love!

Ashley

Friendly Note: I’m simply sharing my journey, experiences, and lessons learned as a Mom in business. This isn’t legal, financial, or professional advice. Always check with a qualified pro for guidance tailored to you.