The answer for a lot of people is probably, “I don’t know. I try not to get outside of my comfort zone.” If that is really true, then we are probably not doing much growing. But think for a minute – “What is outside of your safe space?” A common one for people is public speaking. Yet that is not true for everyone. Actor Kelsey Grammer said that he discovered his calling the first time he was on a theatre stage that he had found where he belonged. Rather than being afraid of public speaking, he relished the opportunity.
We probably all know what it feels like to take a risk a step outside of what’s comfortable. And since we do, it should lead us to be extra sensitive when our spouse is stepping into something new and uncomfortable for them. It could be taking on a new role or project at work and they fear that they are going to be in over their head. Or perhaps they are a natural introvert and in an effort to grow, they decide to head up the church’s Thanksgiving food drive. They may be scared to death, but they want to try.
How do you react to them? Do you suggest that they shouldn’t step out and take a risk? Do you “rain on their parade” or do you support and encourage them? Do you say something like George McFly in “Back to the Future” – “What if they say you’ve got no talent kid – get out of here?” Or do you respond like his son, Marty, saying “You can do anything you set your mind to?”
I want to urge you to encourage your mate when he or she takes on new challenges. Have their back. Be in their corner. Support them by being their biggest fan! The effects on your relationship might pleasantly surprise you.