Growth (progress) comes from discomfort.
I've always heard this quote but I've never quite experienced it like I have this past week.
I'm walking (or shall I correctly say "hiking") the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
I started this journey with 11 other pilgrims as part of a "get started group". We started in France with a guide and she would lead us over the Pyrenees to Pamplona, Spain. On day 5 she cut the umbilical cord and we were on our own.
I was surprised at my immediate attachment and fondness for many of these 11. Some moved ahead faster than others. I bonded with 2 ladies and we called ourselves the 3 musketeers. However, both had pain, problems and then injuries. These issues slowed them down to a speed that was lower than my capability, or my "plan" when I started this journey. But, I loved being with them, so I joined their pace and took it easier than I planned to.
We even took an extra rest day.
I started to realize that I was succumbing to the comfort. We were having fun exploring the towns and villages, eating at great restaurants (one Michelin) and getting massages. Yes, we were still walking, but instead of my "planned 10-15 miles per day," we were "only" walking 6-8 miles per day.
I looked at my schedule and realized I was losing ground and getting behind.
I voiced my concern to my bestie at home and she rightly pointed out that this journey was not only about the steps, but also the relationships gained and people I wanted to meet along the trail.
She was right, but I also knew I had to move on from them.
It was time for me to get out of my comfort zone and start walking! At the pace I knew I could stretch for and reach.
I left my friends 3 days ago and I've done 15.8, 8.9 and 16.4 days!
I knew I was up for the challenge and am proud of getting back on track! (While I was in my "comfort" zone I was worried - maybe I can't do the 10-15 miles?)
So what's the point here on X talking about my Camino?
It's easy to fall into the comfort trap! Especially when you are surrounded by people you love and who love you!! Especially if you are having fun! Especially if you are making progress!
But.... are they holding you back? Can you do more ? Look for people who push you to go further !
Push yourself further!
Get OUT of your comfort zone!
15 days of walking
166.9 miles
333.1 to go!
Buen Camino!