Out of that comfort zone!
Niels Bakker | juni 5, 2024

For less anxiety and a healthier brain
It seems so nice to chill within your comfort zone. Lots of sitting and lying in your bedroom or shared living room. Unlimited scrolling in your phone, gaming or binging Netflix shows. Yet for many, this has become an ingrained pattern with characteristics of addiction. The Corona era has reinforced this behavior and in addition to this increasing addiction, we see that more (social) anxiety has emerged among young people. As a result, everything outside the comfort zone becomes challenging and we actually avoid development opportunities.
Not engaging in new things outside the comfort zone is called avoidance. For example, not engaging in new contacts or exploring uncharted paths. All this can lead to less mental flexibility, a less healthy brain as it were, making it harder to deal with difficult things that you will irrevocably encounter in your life. Losing people around you, failing exams, relationships that break down. It is unfortunately part of life, which is why it is important to learn to deal with it. So get out of your comfort zone!
What can you do to promote a flexible and healthy brain?
- Discover in the real world. Add variety to your days. Bike different routes, cook variety, go to a different pub, listen to different music, etc.
- Start the day with exercise. You gain more confidence by literally developing a stronger spine. This already happens with a daily walk or 7-minute workout. But also explore the many sports options your college town has to offer.
- Creativity: keep writing yourself instead of playing out chat gpt. See the assignments more as a training of your brain and your development, rather than an imposed something from studies
- Being socially active is hugely important. The good news is, there is a tremendous amount to do in your city. There is something for everyone! Music, drama, debate, sports, politics, studies and student associations. Be socially engaged.
Many of the tips are based on the video below about the ideal brain workout with Erik Scherder:
We coach our students using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), which also focuses on supporting a flexible brain. Could you use support with this, please feel free to contact us.