What's Really Blocking You from Doing Hard Things? Uncover the Roadblocks and Embrace Uncomfortable Growth

pumanawahealing
Mar 14
4 min read

Updated: Mar 27

Pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones can feel overwhelming. It's easy to default to safe choices, whether that's skipping a workout, staying in a job you dislike, or avoiding difficult conversations. Yet, personal growth often emerges from navigating these challenging experiences. Taking that step toward discomfort is not just about facing fear; it can significantly improve our mental and physical well-being. So, what truly prevents you from embracing this transformative journey?

Understanding Your Roadblocks

Excuses can creep in and masquerade as legitimate reasons for not pursuing growth. You might think, "I don’t have enough time," or "I’m too tired after work to start a new routine." In reality, many of these barriers are self-imposed. Some Research shows that 70% of individuals attribute their stagnation to fear of failure rather than a genuine lack of resources. It’s important to identify what—or who—stands between you and your progress. Are these concerns about time or energy backed by facts, or are they simply fears holding you back?

Embracing Discomfort for Growth

Real growth requires moving beyond your comfort zone. It’s where you discover your potential. For instance, if you’ve always avoided running, signing up for a local 5K can offer motivation and accountability. Embracing discomfort may also mean expressing your feelings to a friend. It might look like trying out a new healing modality and allowing yourself to be vulnerable, allowing yourself to let go of what no longer serves you and by shedding these things that hold you back, your allowing yourself to step forward in to your full potential. It may be hard, but sharing those feelings and experiences can deepen your relationships and foster connection.

Eye-level view of an open road leading into a sunrise

The Question of Sacrifice

What are you willing to let go of for the sake of your well-being? The journey to self-improvement often requires shedding old habits or distancing yourself from negative influences. While it’s difficult to make these decisions, the rewards on the other side of uncertainty can be substantial. Prioritizing your needs before others expectations can lead to fulfilling experiences you never thought possible.

Ready to Ask Hard Questions?

Self-reflection is key to unlocking your potential. Here are some questions to consider:

What specific fears and barriers are keeping me from achieving my goals?, What is in my control to change these fears and barriers?
In what ways can I prioritize my health or happiness starting today?
Which habits am I ready to change?
What am I currently unhappy with in my life that I have the power to change?
What role am I playing In my current situation?, and am I happy playing that role?
Am I in the drivers seat, and the creator of my destiny? If not, why not?!
Am I making excuses so I don't invite in change? If so why?

Exploring these questions can lead to insights that pave the way for new opportunities. You might uncover the drive to start that project you’ve been putting off or to establish better work-life balance.

Remember great things do not come to those who do not seek.

Prioritizing Self-Care in Your Routine

After your self-reflection, it's important to take concrete steps. What are you planning to do to support yourself this week? Consider developing a self-care routine focused on your overall health. Here are some areas to incorporate:

Physical Health: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week ( that's just a little over 20 mins a day!). Pair this with a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Mental Health: Incorporate activities such as daily journaling, monthly wellbeing or healing sessions, or mindfulness practices. Even just 10 minutes of meditation daily can alleviate anxiety by up to a whopping 40%!
Spiritual Health: Explore practices that nourish you, whether that’s through nature walks, meditation, or engaging with communities that share your beliefs.

Tools for Your Toolbox

Having the right strategies can significantly enhance your ability to overcome roadblocks. Reflect on the tools that help you restore balance in life. Here are a couple of suggestions:

Mindfulness Apps: Tools like Insight Timer or Calm can introduce clarity and calm to your day.
Physical Activity: Consider joining a community sports group or walking with a friend to make exercise enjoyable. Most importantly get out into the natural enviroment and take time to connect.
Support Networks: Cultivating relationships with people who inspire and CHALLENGE you can bolster your motivation to step out of your comfort zone.

These resources are crucial in your journey toward personal improvement. They provide the encouragement needed to persist despite discomfort.

Finding Comfort in the Uncomfortable

The final step in your growth journey is learning to be comfortable with discomfort. When facing challenges, remember that discomfort signals progression. Instead of avoiding challenging situations, welcome them. It’s in these moments you’re likely to experience your most significant breakthroughs.

Great things don't come without change.

Your Path to Growth Awaits

Your potential knows no bounds, but the first step is recognizing—and dismantling—the obstacles in your way. It takes courage to confront discomfort, but immense rewards await those who do.

Embrace the unknown, engage in self-discovery, and gather the practical tools needed for your journey. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup—prioritize your well-being to thrive.

As you take this journey, keep your vision clear. Each small step moves you closer to becoming the person you are meant to be.