In the last academic session, a few days before our Harmattan semester exams, a 55-page material was released to students of my class. Amidst the complaints of having to study that as just a lecturer’s portion in that course, and 11 more courses to study for, we all knew we just had to get it done.
On the first day of trying to study the material, I found it hard to focus. There were too many structures and stuff to memorise in a short time. It was a Sunday afternoon, but I couldn't stop yawning. Then, there was the push to “take a break” by checking WhatsApp for 10 minutes.
40 minutes passed but I was still on WhatsApp (smiles in pain).
I was to study with a friend to discuss what we had studied and share ideas when done. She called my attention and I reluctantly went back to my books. But it wasn't the same anymore. As I was studying with my phone, I felt this urge to check WhatsApp again. I wasn't looking for anything in particular, but I just couldn't help it argh.
This action delayed me and I knew I had to study!
There and then, I remembered the law of Least Effect by James Clear in his book Atomic Habits. I shared it in this newsletter on the digital effect I wrote last September: “It is human nature to follow the Law of Least Effort, which states that when deciding between two similar options, people will naturally gravitate toward the option that requires the least amount of work.”
In short, the material I was studying wasn't giving the vibe I wanted it to give, and I got that dopamine rush from checking WhatsApp and viewing memes— even more than I demanded!
An idea came to me then. Remember I said I was studying with a friend? We were studying the same course and I pleaded that we exchanged devices. Of course, I wouldn't be checking another person’s WhatsApp. On getting her consent, I vacated the desk and sat somewhere far away in the same lecture theatre. With my phone out of sight, I was able to study for longer than intended and with great focus.
End of story!
Here's the thing—life's comfort zones, however insignificant they appear, can be our biggest obstacles to growth. Often, we find ourselves in our routines, our familiarities, and our known territories. But guess where the magic happens? Yes, outside that comfort zone.
So, here's a little nudge for today's newsletter: It's time to "better get used to being uncomfortable and wallow in the moment."
Now, I can almost hear your thoughts. "Roqeebat, why on earth would I willingly step into discomfort?" Well, because growth isn't about standing still. It’s about moving, evolving, and sometimes, it’s about getting a little uncomfortable.
Remember how we talked about busy being busy? Just as we can be caught up in the illusion of productivity, we can also get trapped in the comfort of familiarity, missing out on the opportunities that lie just beyond our regular routines.
So, how can we embrace this discomfort for growth?
1. Embrace the Fear
Just as I sent out that newsletter, despite the fear of the unknown, challenge yourself. Do things afraid, and watch how you evolve.
2. Celebrate Small Wins
Every step outside the comfort zone is a win. Another person’s metrics should not be yours. You confidently asked a question in class? Have you had your poem published? Celebrate it!
3. Reframe Discomfort
See it as a sign of growth, an indication that you're stretching your boundaries and capacities. Whining all the time won't take you far.
4. Find Your Community
Surround yourself with people who push you, challenge you, and remind you of your potential. Together, we can do much more.
5. Reflect and Repeat
Every time you step outside your comfort, reflect on the experience. What did you learn? How did you feel? And then, do it again!
In wrapping up, I'd love to drop an excerpt from André Gide’s writing with you: To find newer shores, one has to lose sight of the familiar coast. And while the waters of the unfamiliar might seem daunting, remember that each wave, each challenge, brings with it lessons, growth, and a stronger you.
So, are you ready to step out, embrace the unfamiliar, and find comfort in the discomfort? The uncomfortable moments today become the proud stories of tomorrow.
Till the very next time,
Thank you for sharing this insightful read.
That's really nice!. 👏🎖
Similarly, I do find myself in such situations quite often.
But, my quick intervention is to force-stop the app and off the notifications.