We generally have a tendency and desire to choose the path of least resistance in order to achieve our goals. This makes perfect sense — compared to effortless tasks, effortful activities are often less pleasurable and more “painful.”
The irony is that the path of least resistance doesn’t always make us “feel good” in the long run. The paradox is that the more we fulfill our natural desire to take the easiest route, the less alive we may actually feel.
When we create, build, or do something that takes effort, we tend to place more value and meaning on it. That leads to a greater sense of satisfaction — and even a sense of feeling more alive in the world. Isn’t that, in the end, what we’re all looking for? Just to feel alive?
Effortless activities rarely give us that same level of satisfaction or sense of growth. When we lie on a beach, sit on a couch, passively watch TV, or scroll through our phones, there’s rarely that deeper feeling of meaning or progress.
Exercise, for example, takes effort — but if you consciously associate meaning and value to it, you’re far more likely to stick with it. Otherwise, the easier path wins: sitting or lying down.
The only way to become a “hero” in your own life story is to intentionally take on challenges and overcome them. Whether it’s learning a new language or instrument, writing an essay, cooking, gardening, running, weight training, dancing — or any physical activity, really — meaning lives on the other side of effort.
Sometimes, choose the path of slightly greater resistance. It might not be easy… but it’s always worth it.