Comfort Zone or Stretch Choice

For this article by Jo Ilfeld, Executive Leadership Coach on stretch choice the image shows a chalk drawing of footprints stepping outside of a circle

Have you ever wondered if having more choices can sometimes lead to worse decisions?

I came across two really interesting pieces of data recently, one of which I came across during parent orientation for my son’s college he’s attending in the Fall.

Research shows that when it comes to choosing roommates or work arrangements, making empowered choices may not always lead to greater happiness. In fact, studies have found that randomly assigned college roommates are often happier than those who choose their own or room with friends from high school.

Similarly, employees who opt for remote work might be less happy than those who work on-site.

Sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zone and embracing a stretch choice can lead to greater happiness and personal growth. 

Related: What Are You Avoiding?

Jo Ilfeld, PhD

An executive leadership coach, Jo helps C-suite leaders, executives, and high-potential managers develop the flexibility, skill, and frame of mind to meet the challenges of the next five, ten, twenty years…. and beyond. She works with individuals, teams and organizations on four core areas of leadership development. Check out Jo's bio page for more information.

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