Midweek Momentum: The Pain of Progress and Why It’s Worth It

Hi friend,

Some of the hardest things you’ll ever do won’t feel rewarding in the moment. They’ll feel exhausting, frustrating, and maybe even like a waste of time.

But the discomfort doesn’t last. The pride does.

Think back to a time when you pushed through something difficult—maybe a physical challenge, a tough decision, or a moment where you kept going when it would have been easier to quit. At the time, it probably felt like a grind. But looking back, you wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.

The effort you put in now becomes the story you tell with pride later. When you hit that next tough moment, remember this. The pain is temporary. The growth is permanent.

STORIES FROM THE PATH: THE PAIN OF PROGRESS

When I achieved my 1st Dan black belt, you might think it was an exciting day filled with celebration. Nope. Let me tell you, it was painful.

I was dealing with killer wrist pain from overtraining in taekwondo and cross country, and I had to complete my entire test with only one functional wrist. As if that wasn’t bad enough, part of the test required me to do one-handed knuckle handstands. Shoutout to the wall for being my saving grace that day.

But here’s the thing. I wanted that rank so badly that no amount of pain or discomfort could stop me. I powered through the test, and when it was over, the pride I felt made all the agony worth it.

If something truly matters to you, you’ll go through hell and high water to achieve it. Pain fades, but the sense of accomplishment sticks with you forever.

YOUR SHORTCUT TO PUSHING THROUGH TOUGH MOMENTS

When things get hard, most people stop. The ones who succeed keep going.

I put together a Mental Resilience Playbook that helps you stay focused when the discomfort kicks in. Whether it’s a workout, a project, or a goal that feels out of reach, this will help you stay in the game instead of tapping out early.

Download it here: [Lead Magnet Link]

Your next breakthrough is right past the moment where most people quit.

QUICK WIN: THE “90/10 RULE”

When you’re overwhelmed, try this. Focus 90% of your energy on the solution and only 10% on the problem.

It’s easy to dwell on what’s going wrong, but shifting your mindset to what you can do about it helps you take control and move forward.

Give it a try. Next time you’re stuck, spend more time acting than analyzing.

Stay focused (or at least pretend to),
Jonathan

P.S. What’s one insight or idea from this newsletter that resonated with you? Hit reply. I’d love to hear your thoughts.