Why We Achieve More by Doing Hard Things and Not Easy Ones

As human beings, it’s natural to want comfort. We like what feels safe and familiar. But real growth whether in healing, recovery, or personal development doesn’t come from staying in our comfort zone. It comes from facing challenges, facing what feels hard, and learning to sit with discomfort. This isn’t just a motivational idea it’s something actually neuroscience supports.

There’s a part of our brain called the anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC). This area is involved in motivation, effort and persistence. Each time we push ourselves to do something difficult, especially when it goes against our habits or impulses, the aMCC “turns on.” It helps us stay focused, tolerate discomfort and keep going even when we want to give up.

Take, for example, someone working to overcome an addiction or break a compulsive habit. Every time they feel the urge but pause and make a different choice, they’re not only showing self-control they’re strengthening the brain pathways that support long-term recovery and resilience. The struggle itself is part of the brain’s training, much like exercising a muscle.

Research also shows that people who consistently succeed in different areas of life whether in recovery, sports, work, or relationships tend to have a more active and even larger aMCC area. But here’s the important part. This part of the brain only stays strong when we continue to challenge it. Avoiding discomfort or difficult choices over time can weaken it, making it harder to manage challenges when they do come.

That means success or healing isn’t a one-time achievement. It’s an ongoing process of choosing growth over comfort. High performers and resilient people keep taking on challenges not because life forces them to but because they know it helps them stay grounded and capable.

So if you want to grow, heal, or move toward your goals, start small. Do one thing today that pushes you. Resist an old habit. Say “no” when it’s easier to say “yes.” Sit with a feeling instead of avoiding it. Each time you do, you’re not just practicing willpower you’re shaping your brain to support the life you want.