If you're never able to tolerate a little bit of pain and discomfort, you'll never get better.
~ Angela Duckworth
Last week, while playing pickleball at the local community centre, I apologized each time I failed to hit the ball well.
My partner at the time, someone I had just met, politely called me out for apologizing, adding that it was a common Canadian trait. I appreciated her frankness.
Having grown up in a more collectivist culture - not Canada - competition can feel unnatural for me. And, when I believe I impair my team’s ability to win, it's my nature to say sorry or not participate.
Connection is important
The need for connection and community is primal, as fundamental as the need for air, water, and food.
~ Dean Ornish
I signed us up to play pickleball mostly because I thought it would improve my husband Dave's quality of life. We are somewhat isolated in our new home.
Dave enjoys playing games. He has been competing in sports all his life, at one time professionally.
Pickleball is easy to learn. Not only does it present an opportunity to meet people but to be more active.
To boost my mental toughness, I do show up when available. But, because I have little experience in sports that require hand-eye coordination, seldom am I eager to go.
The anatomy for growth through discomfort
The more you practice tolerating discomfort, the more confidence you'll gain in your ability to accept new challenges.
~ Amy Morin
In a recent podcast, neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman explained how doing things that make us feel uncomfortable or incompetent activates a part of the brain called the anterior mid-cingulate cortex (aMCC).
By activating the aMCC, the brain’s control centre for resolve and perseverance, we increase our tenacity and ability to achieve goals.
Examples of how growth happens by stepping outside of your comfort zone:
If you are not flexible, you will benefit more from doing yoga than those who are.
If you are always cold, you will benefit more from doing a cold plunge.
If you dislike excessive heat, you will benefit more from a hot sauna.
When we embrace discomfort, we increase the brain's capacity for tolerance and adaptation.
Closing thoughts
There is no growth without discomfort.
~ Abhijit Naskar
Pushing ourselves to overcome obstacles increases competence and self-sufficiency.
When we embrace discomfort by doing something we dread, the brain rewires itself for increased tolerance and perseverance. We become more tenacious and empowered to fulfill our potential.
My hand-eye coordination and comfort with friendly competition is improving. I am motivated to continue to step outside of my comfort zone.
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