Former Daily Show host Jon Stewart started out as a stand-up comic. And his memory of that experience is revealing: “I learned how bad I was and how good I was.” Putting himself out there let him understand his strengths and weaknesses really quickly. Only then was he able to build on his strengths and become the Jon Stewart who changed the news business forever. It’s the same for companies. You have to get out of your comfort zone from time to time to refresh your understanding of what you do well and what you don’t — and how you can harness your strengths to change for the better. From an employee or customer survey to a planning retreat where you’re not in charge, how can you make yourself uncomfortable for the common good?
