Dear Comfort Zone—I’m Breaking Up With You

Hello, CZ—or comfort zone, as most prefer to call you.

We’ve been thick as thieves for as long as I can remember. You were an old friend, a confidant, an enemy disguised as a silent ally. You’ve embraced, held, caressed, and stood by me as I wept in fear of the unknown. You were a caretaker and a teacher, as well as the lesson.

CZ, you’ve shown me that no matter what, I’ll always be comfortable with you.

But I am through with comfort and through with you. We’ve had our moments when I was terrified to speak up or to try something new. You were there, holding me back from my own greatness and finding my purpose in the world. I was so afraid of letting you go that I even stopped writing for a long time. I was afraid that if I finally ended our codependent relationship, I would have to deal with my own internal issues of not wanting to break out of this godforsaken box that I’ve been carrying around for years.

Well, I’m standing up; my head is finally above the box, staring right into my future. I’m not entirely sure what lies ahead, but I’m excited and I’m ready. I’m ready for the ups and downs, the trials and tribulations, the falling outs and, if it’s possible, the falling ins.

I know what you’re thinking—you’re doubting me. That’s okay. I have some doubts too, CZ. I know it won’t be easy letting you go. You were a crutch that I could lean on whenever I wanted. You were a soft, cushiony pillow I could lay my head on when I suddenly felt tired from reaching for new opportunities. But I realized I wasn’t actually resting. I was lying still, watching my life pass me by. Breathtaking moments were zipping past me while I laid paralyzed in your arms.

Now I’m awake. I’m finally stretching my arms and opening my eyes and my mind to new possibilities, and more importantly, new changes. It won’t be easy, but I know it will be worth it.

My dear comfort zone, I’m breaking up with you, in case you haven’t noticed.