We’ve all heard it: “Growth starts at the end of your comfort zone.” But if you’re anything like many millennials — especially those who are anxious, neurodivergent, perfectionistic, or plain ol’ tired — stepping outside your comfort zone can feel more like free-falling into panic.

So, how do we actually expand our comfort zones without ending up burnt out, dissociating, or spiraling? The answer lies in understanding what a comfort zone actually is — and how to stretch it without snapping.