Failing on purpose
Failing at a new activity or sport might actually benefit you WAY more than we previously thought.
Engaging in something we aren’t good at (YET) is uncomfortable and can be difficult if it isn’t something that we catch on to quickly. So, why would I want to do that on purpose?? Well it actually activates the reward system in the brain; there are happy chemicals released such as dopamine, endorphins, and increased growth within the synapses of our brains when we experience even a very “small win” when trying something new. There are also a lot of different areas in the brain that are activated at the same time, including memory, motor, and planning when doing an unfamiliar task. SO, it literally “grows” our brain due to the increase in synapses. This could actually lead to increased control in movement, decision making, memory, and/or emotion regulation. Outside of doing the novel or new task/ activity, this could translate to better management of difficult emotions and actually make us more resilient to things happening in our life.
Do bicep curls to get bigger biceps… do hard things to get better at managing hard things…
The sticking with it, is probably the hardest part for something we don’t feel good at. But that is THE most important part. Learning to lean into this discomfort and viewing it as working towards a reward, will change the way we look at many things in life. So don’t just do things you’ve always done or feel like you would pick up quickly/ be naturally good at. Instead know that starting from zero skill and engaging in it repeatedly, actually has the most benefit for new growth in your mind and life.
Tips for sticking with it:
1. Give it time, perhaps committing to a certain amount of weeks or sessions.
2. Balance the new, while still sticking to your typical routine or exercise plan.
3. Expect and accept frustration.
4. Find a buddy to make it more fun.
YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS.
Doc Hotz