It’s the start of 2026, and you may be finalizing your resolutions…deciding that today is the day you’re going to start. The question is, fast forward three weeks…are you moving forward, or did you already sidestep when your good intentions became tough realities?
Look around you. Whether it’s a public debate, private health challenges or our professional path, there is an overemphasis on being “comfortable”.
While it is a survival instinct to avoid pain that threatens our physical or emotional safety, avoiding discomfort has become a goal on all levels for many people. But the hard truth is, change doesn’t come from comfort. Transformation doesn’t come from complacency. “Kumbaya” moments do not create world peace.
Change comes from challenge. Transformation comes from “embracing the suck” and working through the discomfort rather than running from it. Seismic shifts are the direct result of pressure and friction.
Do you really want to reflect next December 31st and see progress, change or transformation? Then today, you need to set your overarching intention, one you repeat to yourself every day. That intention needs to include your mitigation strategy: what will you do when you hit a speed bump, step in some quicksand or run into a wall?
The “doing” is not what derails us–it’s the obstacles and discomfort we encounter in the process. If you aren’t willing to deal with those along the way, you need to take a hard look in the mirror and embrace the status quo.
If you want the promotion, the new career, the healthier you, or the better relationships, you first need to work on your discomfort avoidance. It isn’t something you need to do alone! You can find support in others chasing the same goals or in a personal coach, leadership coach or trainer.