For me, that step happened when I was chosen to contribute a story to a book where ALL the others who were chosen were published authors. I took a big, deep breath and decided, fake it until they stop you.
Interview. "Hi, I'm Tina and I'm a free-lance writer...." My definition of free-lance is I don't work for anybody. Completely true.
Story accepted. Book sold well, raised money, got a second printing.
Then came the invitation, "One of the recipient organizations is looking for volunteer columnists, on a rotating basis, to contribute to their newsletter...."
I've never written a column, though a case could be made for a post being LIKE a column. I went for it. It's turned out great. All the other authors from the book have dropped out for whatever reason, so now I'm not rotating with anyone. I AM the columnist. Yeah!
Maybe stepping out of your comfort zone means taking on a leadership role. We had a lot of very brave "I'm not really comfortable" people step up to be minions for the A-Z Challenge, and they rocked the town. I bet it gave them some confidence, too.
Maybe stepping out of your comfort zone is visiting blogs that aren't in your same category. You may discover that following a cooking, craft, photography, gaming, or whatever-is-new-to-you blog opens up new doors. New friendships. New circles (not the google+ kind, still don't know how to drive THAT non-intuitive model of car...)
Maybe stepping out of your comfort zone is interacting more with those who visit your blog. Make more return visits. Write return emails. Build friendships.
You never know where your next brave step will take you, and even though it may be uncomfortable, at least it's a new place, full of possibilities.
~Tina, stepping out on a Road Trip with a bunch of "I'm not done visiting blogs from The Challenge yet" brave souls...wanna join us?
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Alex “Ninja Captain” Cavanaugh is our leader for this wonderful, supportive group. Don't forget we even have our own website now. Be sure to check it out if you haven't already, and "like" our facebook page, too. I'm so impressed with what these talented folks are doing to promote this group! Encouragement month long is now just a click away!
