Modern culture, especially the productivity culture, often views comfort zones as something to be avoided, like a four-letter word. However, I’m not convinced that they deserve the negative reputation they have earned.

Here’s my perspective: Have you ever been on a fabulous vacation and, after a few days, found yourself saying to your partner, “We should move here”?

I have had this thought more times than I can count. On the surface, it seems reasonable. The location is stunning, and you’re free from the usual concerns of home – no bills to pay, deadlines to meet, or social functions to attend. Your biggest worry might be when to have your next Mai Tai. But, deep down, we all recognize the problem with this reasoning. The aspects that make a vacation enjoyable are absent from our daily lives.

While vacations are fun, and I undoubtedly feel like a more pleasant person to be around during these times, I’m not necessarily the best version of myself. Vacation habits might include overeating, drinking too much, sleeping too much or too little, and abandoning the routines that foster a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Living perpetually in “vacation mode” is simply unsustainable.

This concept is similar to what the writer of Ecclesiastes addresses in the second chapter, detailing his pursuit of pleasure and finding it ultimately meaningless. So, if staying in a comfort zone is neither the problem nor the solution, what is? Like many things in life, it boils down to balance.

Avoiding comfort zones entirely is not the goal; rather, it’s about finding the right balance between work and rest, effort and ease. Establishing healthy rhythms enables us to appreciate life both within our comfort zones and as we face challenges. The enjoyment derived from restful periods in our comfort zones is enhanced by knowing the effort it takes to be our best selves. Similarly, facing everyday challenges becomes more bearable when we know that rest and comfort are both available and forthcoming.

Therefore, the next time you’re advised to step out of your comfort zone, take a moment to reflect on your current position in life’s rhythm. Ask yourself: Do you need to retreat into your comfort zone momentarily, or is it time to embrace challenges and continue striving towards the best version of yourself?