Discover these literary characters that will help you flourish beyond your comfort zone

Everyone is unique – it’s what makes humankind so powerful. Each person has strengths and talents, but they have weaknesses, too – not that you’d always know it.

Sometimes, it seems the world is full of confident people, excellent at what they do, driven to succeed, never afraid to speak their mind and achieve their dreams. But is that the whole story? Or does it feel a bit one-dimensional, like a novel with no real depth? Is it concealing the dedication and hard work people put in behind the scenes, the setbacks they overcome, and the challenges that take them outside their comfort zone?

The truth is that even the most talented and confident-seeming people find the unknown or the unfamiliar a little scary and can be unsure of themselves (they’re often just good at hiding it). This is to be expected. Trying new things or taking on extra responsibility brings an element of risk that things might not go entirely to plan. But it’s helpful to remember that things are just as likely to go well. And whatever happens, it’s a chance to learn and grow.

Sometimes, however, it can be difficult to imagine how this works, which is when it’s handy to dip into a book for inspiration. There are loads to choose from, but the literary characters here illustrate how taking a step into the unknown or unfamiliar can have surprising results.

Leading the way

Some literary protagonists who find themselves in unfamiliar territory:

Sephy: Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman (12+)

In a reversed society, communities are segregated along racial lines, where pale-skinned Europeans (Noughts) are ruled by a dark-skinned African elite (Crosses). As the daughter of a wealthy and powerful politician, Sephy could easily remain safe in her luxurious and secure home, but she chooses to step into the unknown world of the Noughts. This sees her embark on a journey to end racial intolerance. While her plans don’t always work out and she makes mistakes along the way, Sephy shows great courage and determination as she uses her privileged position to fight for equality for all. She shows how it’s possible to learn and grow while encouraging positive change.

Con: The Explorer by Katherine Rundell (8+)

After the plane she’s travelling in crashes into the Amazon rainforest, Con is amazed to find herself still alive. At first, she can only think of getting back home, but as the story evolves, Con and three other young survivors realise they must navigate their way out of the jungle. Despite her own inner doubts, Con develops new qualities and gains in confidence as she learns to cope with the perilous situation. Ultimately, she becomes comfortable taking safe risks and uses the situation to develop and explore her capabilities. Her story shows how it’s possible to find ways to adapt to unexpected (and sometimes) unwanted change.

Tarni: The Song Walker by Zillah Bethell (9+)

When a young girl wakes up alone in the Northern Territory, she is bewildered, having no idea where she is, or even her own name. After braving a long, cold night in the outback elements – wearing one shoe, a black dress, and carrying a metal case – she is found by Tarni, a First Nations Australian, who is on a quest to find her sister. As they embark on a journey to discover their true identity, Tarni and Magpie (as she becomes affectionately known) trek Alyawarre land, some of Australia’s most hostile wilderness, and develop an enduring connection. Together the girls demonstrate what true resilience in the face of adversity means, and learn the significance of spirituality and empathy. The Song Walker is a tale of self-discovery, friendship, culture, and courage.

Nora: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (16+ Seek guardian permission)

Trapped between life and death, Nora is given the chance to relive her life, choosing from a metaphorical shelf of opportunities in the Midnight Library. As she explores the lifestyles offered in each book, we learn how different decisions lead to different goals and how it’s possible to learn from mistakes. Nora grows in confidence and resilience as she explores the library, seizing new opportunities with each book she picks up. Although this novel contains some challenging themes, it’s ultimately an uplifting read, as Nora highlights how individual choices can bring you closer to your dreams. She also learns that while reaching out of your comfort zone can be hard, you’re capable of more than you imagined.

Switch zones

Think of times when you played it safe and later wished you hadn’t. How might you do things differently now?

Tip: Use this question as your next journalling prompt!