Ditch the Easy Button -Why Doing Hard Things Leads to a Happier Life

Ditch the easy button! Modern life is designed for convenience—instant deliveries, endless entertainment, and dopamine hits on demand. But is all this ease actually making us unhappier? In this episode of Reflect Forward, I explore why doing hard things every day is the key to fulfillment, resilience, and long-term success. When we take the easy route, we rob ourselves of the growth, confidence, and sense of accomplishment that comes from pushing through discomfort. We also dive into the science of dopamine and how it drives our motivation. The problem? We’re constantly overstimulating our brains with quick dopamine fixes—social media, substances, shopping, our phones—making it harder to stay focused, energized, and truly satisfied. I’ll explain why working for your dopamine is essential and how a dopamine fast can reset your brain and reignite your motivation. Why You Should Listen • Understand how modern conveniences are rewiring your brain for instant gratification—and what to do about it • Learn how intentional discomfort makes you stronger, happier, and more resilient • Discover the power of dopamine fasting and how it can help you regain focus and motivation • Get actionable tips on how to push yourself, embrace the struggle, and build the life you want Notable Quotes • “Hard choices, easy life. Easy choices, hard life.” – Jerzy Gregorek • “Effort and struggle unlock our ability to experience the joy of true achievement.” – Dr. Andrew Huberman • “You cannot dream yourself into a character; you must hammer and forge yourself into one.” – James A. Froude Try This Challenge: 1. Start Small – Build Momentum with Micro-Wins 2. Embrace Discomfort – Train Your Brain for Growth 3. Reset Your Brain – Try a Dopamine Fast The Bottom Line: Stop chasing the easy button if you want to live a fulfilling life. Choose challenge. Seek discomfort. Rewire your brain for real satisfaction. What’s one hard thing you’ll commit to today? Share it with me—I’d love to hear how you’re pushing yourself! 👉 Enjoyed the episode? Please share it with someone who needs to hear this message and leave a review. Your support helps grow this incredible community of high achievers and ownership-minded leaders. Don’t forget to subscribe to Reflect Forward on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok! Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/ Please order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO! And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!