A few months ago in Nashville, I had the pleasure of meeting an intriguing young woman named Casey Stinnett. Casey is a software developer, a survivor of a nearly fatal car accident, and an Airstream enthusiast who leverages her career flexibility to travel across the United States.

What struck me most about Casey is her remarkable comfort in being herself and her ability to embrace the uncomfortable. Not yet 30, Casey has already grasped two profound lessons that many people never learn on their journey of personal and professional development.

Here’s how Casey described herself to me:

“I don’t live in my parent’s basement. I like to dress up and go out AND I also write JavaScript for a living. In high school, I took all the computer-related classes available, but there weren’t that many. Today, there are so many more opportunities for girls in STEM, and I regularly give back by talking to kids and telling my story.”

It’s worth noting that Casey is terrified of public speaking. Yet, she has made it her mission to speak to elementary and high school students about being a woman in STEM. Despite her fear, she frequently shares her story, knowing that doing so helps her overcome her fear of public speaking. By putting herself in uncomfortable situations, she is fostering her growth, building confidence, and inspiring young girls who dream of a career in STEM.

Casey knows who she is and who she wants to become. She’s actively confronting the fears that could hinder her future success.

Growth happens outside your comfort zone, and Casey exemplifies this by being comfortable with the uncomfortable.

There’s an old poem called Casey at the Bat, where the mighty Casey strikes out. But Casey Stinnett? She’s hitting home runs. After our meeting, she told me she had successfully led her first client meeting for an app she’s developing. Casey is stepping out of her comfort zone and into a bright future.