Take A Hike

Being able to proceed with any task with little to no difficulty is typically taken for granted. It’s only when a convenience stops being so is how we then understand the qualities the convenience provides, so without a resist force, the convenient task would seem inconsequential. Innovations like an elevator and escalator are aptly named conveniences created to make higher and further reaching destinations easily accessible, but nearby every elevator is a fire escape, a stairwell that accesses all the same locations.

If I were to live at the top floor of an apartment complex or I would need to go down to a subway station, I can’t expect to arrive at either door if it is several stories above or below.

There is something telling about people who choose to take the stairs when the alternative is ride beside them. Sometimes its because theyre in a rush and it’s moving too slow. Sometimes it is because there is a crowd bottlenecked that feels too restrictive. Looking into the key hole of the internal perceptions I have of myself, I had never questioned why I always choose to take the stairs rather than an elevator or escalator. It was a purposeful habit, but I had not justified why.

A constant reminder not to be soft. If you can, you should - to not take advantage of help if you are capable of doing it yourself. or the values I try to uphold.

I’m not taking for granted my mobility by challenging myself to the task whenever the option is present.

Choosing the Harder Way: Reaping Long-Term Rewards

In a world obsessed with instant gratification, it's easy to understand why many individuals prefer taking the easy way towards achieving their goals. However, what if I told you that embracing the harder path can ultimately lead to far greater rewards in the long run? While it may seem counterintuitive, opting for the tougher route not only builds character but also cultivates skills, fosters personal development, and nurtures resilience.

First and foremost, selecting the harder way strengthens an individual's character. When faced with challenges that require perseverance and determination, it forces us to push past our limits, step outside our comfort zones, and confront our fears. These tests of character, whether in our personal or professional lives, shape us into better versions of ourselves. By taking the easy way, we miss out on valuable opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Moreover, choosing the harder way cultivates essential skills that are vital for success in the long run. It stimulates our problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and creativity, forcing us to find innovative solutions when faced with obstacles. By consistently opting for the easy way, we deny ourselves the chance to sharpen these skills, which are invaluable not only in achieving our goals but also in tackling future challenges that lie ahead.

Additionally, embracing the harder route fosters personal development. Striving for a challenging goal promotes self-discipline, time management, and a strong work ethic. It requires a commitment to personal growth, a willingness to learn and adapt, and the guts to confront our weaknesses head-on. By contrast, constantly opting for the easy way tends to breed complacency and stifles personal development, preventing us from reaching our full potential.

Lastly, choosing the harder way nurtures resilience. Life is full of ups and downs, and the path to success is rarely smooth. By embracing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth, we build mental toughness and the ability to bounce back from failure. This resilience serves us well not only in achieving our immediate goals but also in navigating the unpredictable twists and turns that life inevitably throws our way.

Society has glamorized the notion of quick fixes and shortcuts, leading many to believe that the easy way is always the best way. Yet, history has repeatedly demonstrated that great achievements are born from the crucibles of hardship, perseverance, and sacrifice. Whether it be landing a dream job, excelling in academia, or cultivating fulfilling relationships, the harder way is the path