The Gift of Discomfort
One of the truths I repeat often to my team is this: nothing special comes without going through a period of discomfort.
If growth was easy, everyone would do it. The challenges are what make the reward special.
That uncomfortable feeling we often label as nervousness or butterflies is really just a signpost. It means you’re on the edge of doing something meaningful. The way you name this feeling matters. Call it fear, and it may paralyze you. Call it opportunity, and it may fuel you.
This is exactly what we’re navigating as a team right now. We’re implementing new systems—ones that will stretch us, challenge us, and ask us to operate differently. It’s not comfortable, but I’m encouraging us to lean into it with gratitude. Because these systems will allow us to grow faster and provide more value to the people we serve.
When I think about embracing discomfort with purpose, I think of Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality:
Constant Quest for Improvement: Be better today than you were yesterday.
Hard Work Over Talent: Talent sets the stage, but hard work wins the day.
Focus on the Process: Trust the work you’ve put in, even when results lag.
Resilience and Overcoming Fear: Growth lives on the other side of discomfort.
Obsession and Passion: The relentless drive to pursue your best.
Learning from Failures: Every setback is a setup for growth.
Killer Instinct: Attack the opportunity with focus and intensity.
Growth is supposed to be uncomfortable. That feeling is proof you’re moving in the right direction.
So, the next time you feel the butterflies—be grateful. You’re about to do something special or learn a lesson you’ll carry with you forever.
Reframe your discomfort: name it opportunity instead of anxiety. Lean into growth with gratitude.
Adopt the Mamba Mentality: be relentless about getting better, one day at a time.
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God Bless!
~ Schuyler Williamson