I agreed to do two things last week that weren’t in my typical week’s schedule. At the Idea Festival, I volunteered to be on stage for a demonstration with Google’s Craig Nevill-Manning (that’s me on the far right) and I “volunteered” to attend an abs class at the gym with my girlfriend.

During the abs cloass, I was one of 15 in attendance, the only male and only one of three under 40. I was less concerned about my age or gender and more troubled with looking foolish. The class only lasted 30 minutes, but I was relieved both mentally and physically when it was over.

On the other hand, I was on stage in front of hundreds and asked to solve some simple math problems. My temperature never rose and I left the stage feeling glad I volunteered. (Confession: I’ve learned if you volunteer for presenters, they remember you and are more apt to help your cause.)

A few of my friends laughed as I raised my hand so quickly to be on stage and most of all of my friends laughed when they heard I went to an abs class. After looking back, I quickly realized three main points on managing your comfort zones.

1. Be aware of YOUR comfort zone, not THEIRS - If you’re ok with it, go for it, but if it makes you uneasy re-think what would make for a better outcome. You’re smart enough to avoid peer pressure and while you can try new things, if you know the outcome will be bad… alter the situation.
2. Rely on others/Ask for help - Rather than ask my girlfriend for help, I stubbornly tried to figure it out on my own. If you’re going to a networking event and are scared, invite a friend! Don’t show up and stand in the corner like a junior high dance. Pick people who are comfortable in situations to help get you through your uncomfortable state.
3. Have an action plan - I’ve said this before, but when you enter a situation whether it’s a meeting, networking event or a game… have a plan. You need to know what your objectives are or you’re just spinning your wheels. I’m obviously not speaking to social events, but for business affairs… know what you need to achieve to call it a success. The plan not only makes good use of your time, but lets you gain mini-victories throughout a situation to help calm your nerves.

Flickr photo credit: my friend smorty71

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