It’s normal to want things to be easy. Especially in the midst of big changes. We may think that if things are easy initially we will have more capacity to manage our objectives in the long run. But I’d argue that the harder things are initially the more growth we will experience, which sets us up to be more capable when even greater challenges come up down the line. Instead of wanting things to be easy maybe we should want the hard stuff first.
Take for example learning a new process. First we have to let go of the processes that we’ve become accustomed to. Then we have to learn and implement the new process. If everything goes perfectly to plan that first time it’s great. But did we really learn anything?
What if things go on like this for several weeks or months? We might think those are good times. We can go on autopilot. But inevitably something we didn’t anticipate comes up and while we’ve been on cruise control our skill set for dealing with adversity hasn’t grown. We don’t have much other than process to fall back on.
But what if right out of the gate we have a complicated situation? It forces us to research and ask questions. It also forces communication and innovation. It forces self-regulation and time management. In short we build a deeper skill set. Now we are set up to handle any situation and to be nimble when it comes to change. And change will happen again. That’s a guarantee.
Whether you’re starting something new or in the midst of unexpected changes seeking the hard stuff first, while painful, can ultimately lead to more growth and success. It’s important to seek those big challenges. Learn as much as you can. Build your skill set.
Easy is great but to be great means learning to thrive off the hard stuff.
