Research shows that for older adults, a daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety.
However, the predictability of daily life can also lull us into a sense of complacency.
Break it down
To avoid anxiety responses to new challenges, break them into pieces.
Imagine youre trying to learn Italian.
We have two hemispheres in our brain, Arden says.
The right side sees the big picture.
The left hemisphere is more for details, routines and approaching a new behavior.
Small and repetitive successes will forge new neural pathways so you might stick with changes in the long term.
Face your fears
Afraid of heights?
Confront your fears by gradually putting yourself into the discomfort zones that trigger your anxiety.
Psychologists call thisexposure therapy.
It might also be the first step toward deeper changes.
Neuroplasticity describes the brains ability to adapt to changing environments and learn from them by forging new neural pathways.
You have to force yourself to tread new neural pathways.
How do you create new pathways?
By doing what you dont feel like doing until you feel like doing it.
Arden gives the example of studying for a test.
It doesnt feel right.
Because youve got to practice.
After a while, studying becomes a habit.
But just having a new habit doesnt mean that its going to be there forever.
Youve got to stay determined.
Eventually, discomfort gives way to the reward of a new positive behavior.
If someone is harassing you, stand in a strong, assertive pose.
Its a universal stance that says: Youre crossing a line.
Its important to be congruent when youre being assertive, Taylor says.
Dont smile if you want someone to back off.
Practice using your voice, body and face to give a consistent message, she says.
Drop the devices
Technology use might be the most common comfort zone of modern life.
Dont go it alone
It may be easier to try a class or exercise regimen with a partner.
If a friend isnt available, look online for fellow enthusiasts.
Most niche hobbies have a virtual community.
Supportive, reciprocal social interactions help us buffer stress, Arden says.
She decided to give it a try and is hooked.
I never know whats coming next, and theres a thrill in that, Flanigan says.
Allow yourself to be vulnerable
One surefire way to stretch yourself is by being vulnerable.
But embracing your vulnerability isnt just a way out of your comfort zone.
Revealing our authentic, unguarded selves also helps us grow emotionally, build deeper connections and develop greater self-confidence.
I define vulnerability as emotional risk, exposure, uncertainty.
It fuels our daily lives.
