Change can start with discomfort. When everything is perfectly in place, the pace of growth may slow down. The above quote by Serpas reveals the attitude that resists comfort and embraces discomfort as a strategy to bring about progress, rather than something to fear.
Discomfort, when introduced in a subtle manner, can encourage people to think more deeply, to inquire, and to think beyond the usual. It is not about creating fear or chaos but about nudge-nudging people to bring about new ideas to germinate.
In the area of creativity, the working environment, and leadership, discomfort can be a trigger. It encourages people to stay alert, agile, and engaged. Serpas may believe that comfort can bring about stagnation, but a pinch of discomfort keeps the innovation wheel turning.
This mindset is also about honesty. Discomfort usually comes with confronting the truth. By creating an environment that allows discomfort, leaders and creators can confront the truth rather than sidestepping it. This can result in better results and more authentic change.
Unease Drives Growth
It is the unease that drives growth through reflection. When people experience a certain level of unease, they start asking very profound questions: “Why do we do things this way? Is there a better way of doing things? What are we trying to avoid?” These are the questions that form the basis of all growth.
In a business environment, a certain level of unease can be the catalyst that sets a team off on a path of improving their skills and modernizing outdated processes. It prevents complacency from becoming a problem and creates a sense of continuous learning. Rather than being something to be feared, unease can be something that teams are encouraged to see as a sign of growth.
On a personal level, unease is often the edge of transformation. To enter new roles, learn new skills, or challenge existing beliefs is never an easy process. But it is in these areas that confidence is built and strength is developed.
A “healthy dose of unease” is a balance, according to Serpas’ point of view. Too much unease can be overwhelming, but too little unease can extinguish ambition. The answer is moderation, with just enough unease to motivate change without inducing burnout or fear.
Ultimately, a “healthy dose of unease” is a matter of intention. It is a matter of using unease as a tool, rather than an obstacle. With careful direction, unease can result in clarity, creativity, and positive change.
