Growth And Frustration

When we try to do something for the first time, it feels awkward and frustrating. Over time, if we keep trying, we get better. Our skill level increases, and the activity becomes easier. At some point, we find ourselves able to do easily what once caused us great struggle.

But the struggle is not over. If at some point we attempt to improve our skills and take on greater challenges, frustration and awkwardness will return. When we push ourselves to take on new challenges, we feel like beginners all over again.

Growth is always awkward. There’s no way around it. Any attempt to expand our capabilities will come with a fresh supply of frustration. It’s unavoidable. 

If you don’t like to feel awkward or frustrated - and no one does - you might try to avoid those feelings. You might prefer to spend your time doing things that make you feel comfortable. That’s valid, and we all make that choice at times comfortable. Just be aware that when you’re comfortable, you’re not growing.

The world keep changing, and we have to grow in order to keep up with it and, ideally, get ahead of it. If we don’t grow, we’ll be left behind. That’s the cold truth.

So, encourage yourself to grow. Push yourself from time to time, even if it feels a little uncomfortable. Realize that each uncomfortable, awkward, frustrating step forward buys you more comfort and opportunity in the future. Make peace with that awkwardness that frustration and push yourself to become a stronger, more capable person. The rewards will be worth it.