Why it’s so HARD to 'DO THE RIGHT THING' (and what to do about it…)
How often do we find ourselves drawn to the instant gratification of modern life? A glass of wine after work, scrolling endlessly on social media, or bingeing on snacks and TV-cheap, accessible, and instantly rewarding. But here's the catch: the things that truly improve our lives-fitness, mental clarity, and resilience-take time, effort, and discomfort to achieve.
In this video, we explore why our brains are wired to seek pleasure and avoid discomfort, how our evolutionary history plays a role, and why this mismatch between modern life and our neurochemistry is holding us back. But more importantly, we’ll talk about how to fight back. From cold showers to fasting, squats to silence, we dive into practical ways to introduce controlled discomfort into your life. These small, intentional challenges build resilience and help you make better choices-without relying on brute-force willpower.
We’ll also look at how stoicism and hedonism embody this tension, why prevention is better than “cue,” and why the secret to making the right decisions might just lie in your ability to embrace discomfort. So, are you Team Dionysus or Team Apollo? Let’s find out.
Drop a comment below:
What’s the last thing that triggered you?
How do you usually respond to cravings?
What’s one small discomfort you’ll try tomorrow?
📚 Resources and References
Atomic Habits by James Clear: Explains habit loops, cues, and how to reprogram your responses. jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter: Discusses the dangers of over-comfort and the benefits of seeking discomfort. www.michaeleaster.com/book
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl: Explores resilience, purpose, and meaning in the face of discomfort. www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/5673
“Why Cold Showers Are Good for You” - BBC Future: Research-backed article on the mental and physical benefits of cold exposure. www.bbc.com/future/article/20211213
“The Science of Willpower” - Stanford University: A deep dive into how self-control works. www.edx.org/course/the-science-of-willpower
🎥 Other videos to check out:
Building Mental Resilience Through Small Challenges
Hedonists vs Stoics: How to Find Balance in the Modern World
Why Willpower Isn’t Enough: Habit Hacks for Long-Term Success
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