Deliberately Do Hard Things

Doing challenging things is essential.

And there’s actually psychology-backed data to prove it.

Every time you avoid doing something hard because you don't want to face the challenge, you're telling your brain that comfort means safety, and discomfort means danger.

But that discomfort is essential for progression.

When you avoid doing something because it’s difficult, your brain begins to see that avoidance as the default approach to tasks. This then makes it even harder to do the hard things when you need to.

Learn From Exposure

Our brains learn through exposure.

When we complete a difficult task, one that requires us to lock in and get to work, our brains release dopamine (the reward chemical), which then makes us feel good.

And then, when our brains are rewarded for completing the task, it builds an association that finishing something difficult directly relates to feeling good. It’s why people get a “high” from a workout after a long period of going to the gym. Their brains are - literally - rewarding the behaviour of hard work.

This creates a loop in our minds where they begin to associate hard work with reward, making difficult things easier. Eventually, your brain will stop resisting hard work and instead begin to chase it.

By doing the hard thing, you’re not just building your skills in the area being tested, but you’re also strengthening your discipline and rewiring your brain.