Alright, let’s cut to the chase: Life loves to throw curveballs, right? Sometimes it’s a job opportunity that feels way out of your league. Sometimes it’s a move to a city where you know literally no one. And sometimes it’s deciding whether or not you’re brave enough to say “I’m going bangs” in front of a hairdresser.
But here’s the thing: If it’s showing up in your life, it’s not because the universe is trolling you. It’s because you’re ready for it. You might not feel ready (hello, impostor syndrome), but you are.
And if you don’t believe me, let’s look at the science—because we’re not just here to vibe; we’re here to thrive.
1. Your Brain Is Secretly Rooting for You
Your brain is like that one friend who’s super cautious and always carries hand sanitizer but will also hype you up to send a risky text after one margarita. It wants you to stay safe—but it also loves a little thrill.
When you take risks, your brain releases dopamine (a.k.a. the “you did the thing!” chemical). Dopamine is like your brain’s way of high-fiving you for stepping out of your comfort zone. Plus, every time you do something scary, your brain gets better at handling fear. You’re basically training it to chill out the next time you try something big.
So, congrats, you’re not just winging it—you’re evolving.
2. Scary Things Build Self-Trust (Yes, Even If You Bomb)
Let’s talk self-trust. You know how you trust a friend more when they show up for you, even if they’re a little late and holding a coffee that’s definitely for them and not you? It’s the same with yourself.
Every time you take a risk, you’re telling yourself, I believe in you. Even if it doesn’t work out perfectly, you’re proving you can handle the fallout.
Psychologists call this self-efficacy, which is a fancy way of saying, “I’ve got this.” And the more you flex that self-trust muscle, the more unstoppable you become.
3. Empowerment Comes From Failing Spectacularly
Empowerment isn’t about winning all the time. (Spoiler: No one wins all the time. Not even Beyoncé. Probably.) It’s about learning to handle failure with grace—or, at least, with a decent cry, a snack, and a pep talk.
Research shows that risk-takers are more resilient. Why? Because they’ve seen the worst-case scenario and lived to tell the tale. So, even if your leap of faith lands you face-first in the metaphorical mud, you’re still stronger for having taken it. Plus, you’ll have a killer story to tell later.
4. Your Comfort Zone Is a Liar
Let’s get real: Your comfort zone isn’t comfortable—it’s familiar. And familiar can feel safe, but it’s also kind of boring.
When you step outside your comfort zone, your brain freaks out at first (thanks, amygdala, for the panic attack), but it quickly adjusts. It’s like trying a new skincare product: a little scary at first, but once your skin glows, you wonder why you waited so long.
And here’s the kicker: Once you conquer one scary thing, your brain logs it as proof you can handle the next one. It’s like building a highlight reel of your own badassery.
5. If It’s Showing Up, It’s Not a Coincidence
Here’s some woo-woo that’s actually rooted in logic: Opportunities don’t show up randomly. They show up because deep down, you’re ready for them.
Think about it: If you truly weren’t ready, you wouldn’t even see the opportunity. You’d scroll right past it, like a cringey post from your high school friend selling leggings. The fact that you’re even considering the leap is proof you’re capable of making it.
Sure, risk-taking is terrifying. But you know what’s worse? Staying stuck. Taking risks isn’t just about living your best #YOLO life—it’s about:
• Building self-trust that you can bank on.
• Flexing your resilience muscle (because life doesn’t come with training wheels).
• Expanding your comfort zone until it’s basically the size of Texas.
So, what’s the thing that’s showing up in your life right now? That job you’re too scared to apply for? That side hustle you keep pretending isn’t a good idea? That decision to swipe right on someone with a picture of them holding a fish?
Here’s the deal: You don’t have to feel 100% ready. You just have to trust that you’ll figure it out. If it’s in front of you, it’s because you’re meant to face it.
Take the leap. Do the thing. Yes, it’s terrifying—but you’ve got this. Your future self is already cheering you on.
(And if all else fails, there’s always snacks and a Netflix binge waiting for you afterward.)
Glow get it,
Kate