Just as water follows the path of least resistance when it flows, often times we, as habit-forming creatures, tend to do the same as we flow through our careers. In our careers, this path of least resistance is often referred to as our "comfort zone". Having a comfort zone does not mean we are lazy, have a poor work ethic, or are weak. It simply means by human nature we prefer happiness and are averse to change or feeling uncomfortable.  Similar to blind spots existing in our mirrors when driving, we can find ourselves blind to operating in the same cyclical routine in our lives and careers day in and day out and not even realize it.  To mitigate this latent complacency we need to actively be aware of our environment and how we interact with it within our careers, or we could be smothering our professional growth and not even know it - by limiting our potential to the confines of our comfort zone(s). One of the most important leadership principles taught by the United States Marine Corps, an institution greatly revered for its leadership qualities, is to "know yourself and seek self-improvement". Couple this leadership principle with the famous well-known quote "That which does not kill us makes us stronger." by the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, and you have an instant equation for success. Therefore if you commit to being aware of yourself and your environment, adapting in your careers to operate comfortably outside of your comfort zone on a regular basis, you will have no choice but to grow professionally and become more successful and agile in the workplace. So whether you find yourself uncomfortable speaking in front of a large audience, dealing with topics in the workplace such as diversity and conflict resolution, or avoid social gathering and networking events, take these challenges as opportunities to become a better you in your career, and surpass your peers in the process.