A Day’s Journey

Tanzania — July 2022

Don’t be a basic bush! Let’s discuss one of the darkest places that we all live in at some point or another— the comfort zone. I’m in week 7 out of 9, and reflecting on a trip that has forced me out of the comfort zone. Let’s explore: what is the comfort zone?

The comfort zone is where we coast. Things are chill, but aren’t necessarily going anywhere. Goals are on the back burner and may even seem out of reach. Personal growth happens when we leave the comfort zone in pursuit of adventure and growth.

Tanzania has been a whirlwind of experiences and emotions. We drove over 1,000 km in 2 days to reach Zanzibar. Very little sleep, packing up camp in the dark… barf and bees on the bus (lonnnng story). Several hectic ferry rides later, we arrived in absolute paradise. This was one of our hotel stays, so wow did that bed feel amazing. Also having some quiet space for myself away from the group. After the long weekend in paradise, we entered a different kind of paradise – the Serengeti. Back to the camping life and go-go-go timeline, but absolutely worth it!

Africa overall would not be an adventure if I was living in relative comfort, coasting through. From the get-go, I was placed with 20 other individuals whom I was expected to spend every living second with for 2 months— not always the same individuals, but always at least 20 people. This is an introvert nightmare. BUT I had to tell myself that this was an opportunity to learn from and with other people. I’ve learned how to make space for myself as well. Quiet times to recharge my batteries before rejoining the group to socialize. Next, I slept on the ground for 2 months (still love camping though). On occasional stops, such as Zanzibar, we would sleep in real beds for a night or two and man, I didn’t know how luxurious a bed can really be. Of course camping isn’t the most comfortable situation, but it’s certainly the best way to truly feel Africa and the nature that surrounds you. I learned just how little I need to survive and be comfortable. Do I really need a million blankets and pillows to sleep or can I survive with just a sleeping bag? Can I survive with only what I can fit in my backpack? Definitely. Not to mention we slept in places spanning over 30° of latitude! Started in freezing temperatures and ended in hot, humid, and sometimes rainy conditions at the equator. Escaping the comfort zone allows you to adapt. The “uncomfortable” moments turned into my favorite memories.

When you’re in pursuit of something greater than yourself, the comfort zone must be left behind. You have to be willing to be vulnerable, adapt, and live with flexibility. My original question going into this trip was: what would it feel like? I left relative comforts in pursuit of something greater.

Think about your goals and dreams and reflect on what it would feel like to achieve them. Are the hardships to get there worth that feeling? If yes- then that is the true essence of leaving the comfort zone. Life begins outside your comfort zone!