Last year in my blog post Step Outside Your Comfort Zone, I wrote about the benefits that can be gained by taking on work that is different than what you usually do – your mental comfort zone, if you will. Last night I stepped outside my physical comfort zone, and found it to be rewarding as well.

At the time I first started my business, I was working about 30 hours a week at outside employment. If I wasn’t at my job, I was either working at home, with a client or attending a networking event or seminar. When I left the job to work in the business full-time, I realized that it was no longer necessary for me to dedicate all of my evenings to work. As I became settled in my new routine, I found myself attending fewer and fewer evening events.

Back in December, I read about a free BizLaunch seminar that was taking place in my area last night. I mentioned it to one of my friends, and we decided to go. The weather yesterday was less than ideal, and I’ve been having a really busy week, so it would have been really easy to just stay home. On the way there I even admitted to my friend that if she hadn’t been going with me, I probably would have done just that. But I’m glad I went, and here’s why.

1. I received some excellent tips on getting free publicity, including a handout package with additional information that couldn’t fit into the 90 minute session.
2. I received a big reusable bag (the kind made of recycled material).
3. I WON a $50.00 gift card from Staples.
4. All the participants briefly introduced themselves at the beginning of the seminar, and there was one woman I thought would be a great contact for one of my new clients. When I went to introduce myself afterwards, it turned out that she also wanted to talk to me, as she was interested in knowing how I could help her business.
5. After the seminar I was able to see and feel a camera I’ve been looking at online, and now I’m more confident it’s what I’m looking for.
6. I enjoyed spending time with my friend.

It was obviously well worth the outing! Clearly for me, going with someone else was the factor that tipped the scales in favour of going, rather than staying home – something to keep in mind in the future! I’ve written this post not only with the goal of motivating you to also get up and go, but as a reminder to myself, the next time I don’t feel like leaving my comfy home.

What motivates you to “get up and go”?