Glad You Are Struggling

Fact: Starting anything new can be very challenging.

Example:

You can’t remember the last time you worked out.

Suppose you decide to (re)embark on a personal fitness journey by hitting the gym regularly. 

At first, lifting weights and working through various exercises aches your muscles, and you struggle with proper form.

The early stages of establishing any routine are often filled with uncertainty, resistance, and even frustration.

However, as you stay consistent, your body adapts, and you start to see improvements in your strength and physique.

Eventually, the initial discomfort transforms into a sense of accomplishment and motivation, reinforcing your dedication to growth.

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Struggles are a universal aspect of the learning process in various domains of life.

Whether it is learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, starting a business, or even embarking on a new relationship.

There’s often an adjustment period where we face tons of initial challenges.

However, with dedication and an actionable game plan, we can overcome these obstacles and ultimately achieve success and true growth.

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8 steps to overcome resistance in starting a new routine:

1. The Warm-Up

Like the body, the brain needs preparation.

Just as athletes warm up before lifting heavy weight or performing on stage, our brains require a warm-up period.

This warm-up phase allows our brains to identify and activate the circuits necessary for focused work.

2. Embracing discomfort

It’s essential to recognize that the initial discomfort and stress when entering highly concentrated states are normal and even necessary.

These feelings are often the gateways to achieving the deep focus required for success.

3. The Role of Dopamine

Dopamine, often associated with external rewards, plays a crucial internal role in our motivation and focus.

Dopamine is released not only when we achieve external rewards but also when we make progress or feel that we are on the right path.

4. Rewiring for Success

By connecting dopamine to specific patterns of focus and accomplishment, we can create a neurological scaffolding that strengthens our ability to stay on task.

This enables us to become highly skilled in specific areas, leading to successes in various aspects of life.

5. The Power of Growth Mindset

A growth mindset acknowledges that the initial feelings of stress and agitation are essential steps towards deep focus.

Embracing these initial challenges can lead to joy and excitement in the effort process, reinforcing our drive for achievement.

6. Self-reward and neurochemistry

Self-rewarding the effort process is a powerful tool that allows us to overcome initial hurdles.

By recognizing and celebrating small milestones along the way, we boost dopamine release, suppressing stress and increasing focus.

7. Transitioning to Internal Rewards

Over-reliance on external rewards can hinder long-term motivation and growth.

Learning to self-reward internally for making progress and staying on the right path empowers us to maintain focus and energy. 

8. Duration, Path, and Outcome

Controlling and rewarding ourselves at internal milestones while working toward a larger goal provinces an infinite source of energy and focus. 

By recognizing that the journey itself is rewarding, we can navigate the challenges with confidence and determination.

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Understanding the role of dopamine, nurturing a growth mindset, and rewarding small wins can help unlock your full potential. 

With the right mindset and support, you can persevere through the initial discomfort and achieve remarkable success in any endeavor.