Seeking Discomfort and Finding Growth: The Rooms We Don’t Belong In
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves in situations that demand courage, strength, and a willingness to explore uncharted territories. These moments of discomfort, as challenging and daunting as they may be, have the power to redefine our perspectives, unlock doors to new possibilities, and ultimately, transform us into better versions of ourselves. My experience at the European Leadership Academy (ELA) in Valencia this summer was one such pivotal moment that left an indelible mark on my journey of self-discovery.
Just four days before I arrived in Valencia for the European Leadership Academy, I experienced a significant milestone: my master's graduation. This was a day I had been working towards for five years, a day that marked both the conclusion of an academic chapter and the end of my student life. Five years spent soul-searching, trying and failing, moving places, creating communities, and making lifelong friendships. Throughout this period, I was constantly seeking discomfort, embracing new opportunities, and pushing myself beyond my limits in the quest for personal growth.
As I reflected on my journey of self-discovery on my way to Valencia, one theme that stood out prominently was the concept of "rooms we belong in." This year, in particular, has been a transformative one for me, characterised by a continuous effort to place myself in rooms where I initially felt like an outsider. It is a theme that resonates with many of my friends in their early twenties, as we all grapple with imposter syndrome and self-doubt.
During the past year, I've challenged myself to step into unfamiliar territories repeatedly, and I have dived into new environments head first. I attended the Mobile World Congress, participated in a Computer Science Research Conference, tackled complex business cases at HEC Paris and at McKinsey’s London office, and even contributed to shaping the future of education through the IDSA x Ars Electronica Founding Lab. Each of these experiences immersed me in situations that prompted me to ponder my sense of belonging; paradoxically, they were the very crucibles where I unearthed growth, wisdom, and self-discovery.
At the European Leadership Academy, I found myself in a room with 28 ambitious young women from across Europe, all trailblazers in their respective fields, who had achieved incredible feats. While initially, I struggled with imposter syndrome, questioning my place among such accomplished peers, ELA allowed me to learn one of the most profound lessons - the power of discomfort. Through shared experiences and open conversations, I realised that being among extraordinary individuals was about recognising my unique potential and ability to contribute. In embracing this discomfort, I not only found my place in that room but also forged meaningful connections, celebrating each other's successes, and empowering one another to push boundaries. ELA taught me that it's perfectly normal to feel like an outsider in certain situations. It's okay to question your presence in rooms that seem beyond your reach or comprehension. In fact, it's these moments of self-doubt that become the breeding grounds for personal development and transformation.
ELA's immersive and challenging environment pushed me to question not only my capabilities but also my assumptions about the world and my place in it. The Academy emphasised that magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone, embrace the discomfort, and allow it to propel you forward. It's in these moments of vulnerability that we discover hidden strengths, develop resilience, and unlock new potentials we never knew existed.
Nonetheless, while discomfort may be the vehicle for growth, it's equally important to acknowledge and celebrate the milestones achieved along the way. These moments of self-reflection and appreciation provide a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection with the journey of self-improvement. Balancing the discomfort of pushing boundaries with the recognition of personal achievements forms a holistic approach to personal development, ensuring that we evolve not only as individuals but also as individuals with a profound understanding of our own capabilities and the impact we can have in the rooms we eventually come to belong in.
Radina Kraeva on 04/10/2023