It’s easy to get stuck, warm and cozy in your career working in the same hospital, the same unit, with the same people year after year. Working in your "comfort zone" requires little time, or personal effort. But if you want to improve your career and your life it is important to realize that the place outside your comfort zone is where you will find exciting new experiences and freedom from boredom and frustration.

I have spent my career working in a variety of medical/surgical intensive care units. Throughout my career I have taken care of geriatric, adult, adolescent and pediatric populations. My experiences with pediatric patients has been limited; not because of choice but because of opportunity.

This year, with the threat of a flu epidemic many hospitals are preparing for the possible influx of pediatric patients requiring admission to our ICU. You might imagine the stress and anxiety this possibility brought upon the staff and myself. While I have some pediatric experience, the majority of nurses working in our ICU have never taken care of seriously ill pediatric patients.

In an effort to gain knowledge and some semblance of confidence I left my comfort zone and quickly enrolled in a pediatric advanced life support (PALS) class. The class was sponsored by a very well- regarded pediatric hospital in my area. I knew the class content would be excellent and the requirements for obtaining certification tough. With only a week to brush up and review the latest standards, the pressure was on. I was successful in passing all requirements for certification.

Reaching out beyond my comfort zone not only expanded my knowledge and skills--but it was invigorating. I met new people, saw new sites and simply learned a lot.

Here are some tips that may help you leave your comfort zone:

1. Face your fears. Do it in small steps. Don’t change careers over night. Working one day a week in a different unit will do wonders for your enthusiasm for life.
2. Try something "way out there." Take a class or join a group that is out of character for you. You might be surprised.
3. Make a new acquaintance; this will expose you to new experiences, opinions and interests.
4. Take a friend with you. It will ease your anxiety and provide a level of familiarity and comfort. But don’t let your friend monopolize your time and restrict you from meeting others or having different experiences.
5. Educate yourself. Do the research. Stepping out of your comfort zone may not be as scary as you imagine. Being prepared, doing your homework and talking with others will help you with your new endeavor.
6. Despite the fluttering in your belly, the shaking of your hand or the fact that your mind goes blank when you test yourself--be positive. Just remember that leaving your comfort zone is good for you.