Growing is often uncomfortable; we find that embracing discomfort can be motivating.

Discussions about comfort and discomfort surround us.

Wegner is a clinical psychologist and teaches about motivation as an adjunct in Harvards School of Education.

Asian woman about to start running, looking determined

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She says that part of the issue is societys approach to feelings of discomfort more generally.

But discomfort anduncomfortable emotions, uncomfortable experiences, uncomfortable social relationships, and uncomfortable dynamics.

Whatever the method,Dr.

She gives two examples to illustrate the different experiences of discomfort and exposure.

In the former, the discomfort is managed and supported.

In the latter, the risk for negative impacts is increased.

At what point are we not able, any longer, to be present?

And not completely run away from it, but somehow mitigate the exposure.

Being able to remain in the moment can help improve your capacity for discomfort.

Woolley K, Fishbach A.Motivating personal growth by seeking discomfort.Psychol Sci.

2022;33(4):510-523. doi:10.1177/09567976211044685