This Is What Getting Better Feels Like
Inspired by Nir Eyal episode
Nir Eyal: discomfort isn't failure - it's what getting better feels like. True for product skills. True for becoming a patient parent.
Nir Eyal has a mantra for when things feel impossible: "This is what getting better feels like." The discomfort isn't failure. It's growth. If it felt easy, you'd already be good at it.
You're trying not to yell when your kid dumps an entire box of cereal on the floor because they wanted to "see what happens." Every parenting book you've ever skimmed is screaming different advice and you're just standing there holding a broom thinking "I used to run product launches and now I'm being defeated by Cheerios."
This feels terrible. Like you're failing at something other parents do effortlessly while also making organic baby food.
But those parents aren't naturally calm. They've just done more reps. They've swept up more cereal while their soul left their body.
The discomfort isn't evidence you're bad at this. It's evidence you're attempting something hard. This is what getting better feels like. Say it out loud while you sweep. Talking to yourself is free therapy.
