What to Do When Your Brain Tells You to Stop
This week, I want to talk about one of the most powerful forces for growth: change.
I know, change is often uncomfortable. It’s easy to stick to our safe routines and patterns. But here’s the truth: growth only happens when we challenge ourselves to try new things.
One of my favorite entrepreneurs, Jesse Itzler, once said, “The bigger your goals, the bigger your calendar.” When you set ambitious goals, you don’t just wait for things to happen. You force change by taking action and stepping into the unknown.
Jesse also emphasizes that discomfort equals growth. He calls it, “getting comfortable being uncomfortable.” This is exactly what embracing change is all about. If we’re not feeling at least a little discomfort, we’re probably not growing.
Whenever I’ve faced something new—whether it was starting a business, taking on a massive project, or trying something for the first time—I’ve always had that feeling of, “I don’t know if I can do this. Maybe I’m not ready.” But here’s the kicker: that feeling is exactly what I needed. It means I’m pushing myself, testing my limits, and forcing myself to level up. And I know I’m not alone in this. Jesse’s own experiences are full of moments where he had to force himself to grow.
The Brain’s Protection Mechanism vs. Growth
Our brains are wired to protect us. They’re constantly sending signals to slow down, back off, or stay in what feels safe. But this is exactly where we need to lean in and keep going.
When we push toward big goals and step out of our comfort zones, our brains will often tell us, “It’s too much” or “You’re not ready.” But those signals aren’t warnings; they’re signs of growth. Discomfort equals progress.
Just like Jesse Itzler pushing through mental and physical barriers, we must understand that resisting the instinct to pull back is where the magic happens. When your brain tells you to stop, that’s when you need to keep going. That’s where growth is born.
Trying new things isn’t just about ticking things off a list. It’s about embracing the discomfort of change because that’s where the real transformation takes place.
The Challenge for This Week
So here’s your challenge for the week: What’s the new thing you’re willing to try?
It could be as small as starting a new habit or as big as switching careers. The point is, if you want to see change, if you want to view the world from a fresh perspective, are you willing to embrace the discomfort?
It’s easy to talk about our goals and dreams, but are you willing to endure the discomfort to make them a reality?
When you feel the resistance to change, that’s your signal that you’re on the right track. Because on the other side of discomfort lies the person you’re meant to become.
Remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about having the courage to take that first step.
How many times have you stepped outside your comfort zone, tried something new, and then realized, “Wow, I love this! I wish I’d started earlier.”
Let’s not give our brain the chance to make us wonder what could’ve been.
Take that first step today.
What’s the worst that could happen? You might discover you don’t like it—but at least you’ll never have to wonder again.
So, what new challenge will you take on this week? Let’s make it count.
Wishing you a week full of bold steps and exciting new possibilities.
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