Friday, February 19, 2010

My Comfort Zone Expansion Project

I've spent the past several weeks contemplating a big decision. At least it feels big to me. And no - you Facebook commenters, it is not about whether or not to have 4 kids. (Besides, I think that decision has already been made... :)

No, this decision is more "career" based.

I attended a couple of Norwex parties over the last few months (courtesy of Rebekah) and both times came away with this overwhelming sense that, I could DO this. The feeling grew stronger over time and while I spent A LOT of time hemming & hawing over it all, I think I knew in my heart of hearts all along that I would end up taking the plunge and becoming a consultant.

For those of you who don't know me well, I'm not much of a risk-taker. I'm more of a play-it-safe kind of girl. And while this mentality has served me well in terms of keeping stress and trouble at bay, I would admit that it's been a little bit.... boring. Even lonely at times.

Of course, there have been times when I've stepped out of my comfort zone. Like when I was a worship leader at our church in Calgary (Erik & I have a good laugh when we think about this now), or when I tackled the task of teaching English to a class-full of Peruvians during our missions trip 7 years ago, or when I agreed to join family and friends on a ministry road trip in a small motorhome across the country with a 6-month-old baby (yes, that one really makes me laugh). But, since I've had more kids, it's been easy to settle into a very predictable rut. It's been easy to have a million excuses for not trying new things.

So, while I may or may not use this blog to promote the environmental, time-saving and financial benefits of Norwex cleaning products, this post is more about my journey of getting to this point. It's a decision that has become less about the products and benefits and more about God challenging me to try something new.

I'm not saying that God loves Norwex (though I'm sure I could make an argument for wise stewardship of our money, time & environment!) but what I am sure of is that God loves me. He loves me enough to gently coax me out of my rut and bring me a fresh challenge. A challenge that forces me to rely on him and trust in him (despite the fears and doubts that creep in); to believe that I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

So, yes. My journey to Norwex has been surprisingly... spiritual.

And now, with fear and nervous excitement, I will step forward and push the boundaries of this zone of comfort.

15 comments:

matt&ruth said...

Way to go, Jamie! I know how attractive our comfort zones can be... and how hard it is to push those boundaries. I think you will do GREAT!

Cheri said...

Way to go for it, Jamie! I hope it all works out well for you! I have to admit that I have a very similar personality and it is frustrating at how much it holds you back from! I feel the same way with photography! I would LOVE to get into it more but am chicken and feel I don't know enough and wouldn't be good enough at it! I see your sister's work and she really inspires me...maybe when my kids get a little bigger I'll take the plunge! Good for you though!! Good luck!

Kelsie-Lynn said...

Jamie I think that is so awesome! I love being a consultant and having my own little business and I am sure you will too. Its great because you can do it as much or as little as you want, and its such a great way to get to know new people!
I also wanted to say we still talk about the summer you guys came to camp and how blessed we were by your team and how we would love to have you all back. Blessings to you as your start your new journey.

Sarah said...

Sounds awesome, Jamie! And very cool that it's been a spiritual challenge as well. I have yet to make it to a Norwex party, so maybe I should wait and have my first with you? We'll talk, haha.

Trev and Rebekah said...

I love that you took time to pray about this and that you see His hand in the process.
I am excited for you and want to come to a party you host so I can be a fan of yours! :0)

rachel joy said...

Yay! I'm so glad you went for it. I think you'll do really well with Norwex - and I totally understand the personal and spiritual challenge you're talking about.

The Keowns said...

i love norwex.
especially my mop, don't know how I would live without it.
wish you were closer cauze I would order from you

Kathy's corner said...

I am so proud of you Jamie. You must get it from me, the fear of taking risks and trying new things. When we ask God tochallenge us, he always opens doors. I am praying for you, that this would be a good fit for you, and yes, I LOVE Norwex, and I am glad you are coming all the way to Manitoba, to do a party at my house, and I WILL order the mop. Love you. mom

Vanessa said...

That's really great to hear! Taking risks is hard, but often really rewarding and it's been neat to hear what brought you to this point! :) All the best as you take this next step!

Erin and Rob said...

You'll be super great at this Jamie - esp. if you believe in the products . . . . . I struggle with the same things in terms of risk-taking. Last year was it was a huge decision for me to begin teaching piano, just believing I could do it. Many sleepless nights were spent wondering. Now it feels so natural, and I wonder why I doubted myself. For me, it took some baby steps to get to this point, and mentorship. I'm sure there's lots of that at Norwex with other consultants too. And you have tons of wisdom and talents, and personality so you'll do great!!

Bonnie said...

Good for you Jamie! I truly hope this is a wonderful adventure for you... one where God can stretch you in good ways, you never could've imagined! Maybe I'll have to host a party sometime ;)

kelly ens said...

awesome Jamie - way to go!!! :) So great how God can cause these seemingly un-spiritual things to become spiritual.
i have wanted to buy a few Norwex products, but so far it's just been about the money. but i'll come to you when it's time :)

KDees said...

This is great, Jamie! I love it! I'm sure you'll do an awesome job as a Norwex consultant! And, I love how you brought this all back to God's love and His desire for you to step out of your comfort zone. Fantastic! And, just so you know - you did a GREAT job as worship team leader too, way back when. I have fond memories of those days!

Anonymous said...

I could have just written this same post!! I just became a Norwex consultant and have many of the same feelings as you. Praying for both of us to have fun with this new venture :)

Dianna said...

Wish i would could come to your party I heard so much good stuff about that Norwex mop I just might buy it from you also. I would love to see it first hand tho