Growth Is Simple

How Real Change Happens In Small, Present-Moment Choices

We overcomplicate everything. Sometimes it’s because we don’t want to accept a simple answer. Other times, it’s a way to create a distraction or delay, giving us an excuse to practice avoidance. Being human with a complex mind means that we are always searching for more possibilities, angles, and what-ifs. That’s why we have anxiety, of course. We project possibilities so we’ll have more information, then end up scaring ourselves by believing the stories we’ve come up with.

Growth is at the top of the list of things we overcomplicated. I’m talking about real, actual, personal evolution. Not thinking about it. Not planning to make changes and convincing ourselves that plans equal action. Not remembering pithy quotes we can regurgitate at the right moment. Real, honest, basic effort and change in your day-to-day life.

As I’ve thought about all the learning tools that have circulated over the years, encompassing concepts, stories, true wisdom, actionable insights, repackaged ideas, and good marketing alike, I always come back to the same conclusion. Growth is simple. And the only reason people struggle to see the progress they want is that the answers are presented to them in an overly complicated, incomplete, or salesy way.

With all good teachings, the paths ultimately lead back to the same place. The present moment. That’s where change happens. Not crunching yourself while grasping a cringy memory. Not imagining what your dream life looks like. It happens right here, right now, in this very life you’re living. Imperfections and all. And actually, the imperfects are great because they are what give us a chance to practice.

To achieve authentic change, you have to start paying attention to the present moment. You notice how you’re feeling, what you’re thinking, and what you’re doing as it’s happening. While self-monitoring in this way, you take action and intervene in key moments. Doing this disrupts the patterns of behavior that you want to change, allowing you to choose a new action and repattern your behavior.

Keep it simple. Address what you notice in the present moment and counteract the suffering with a balanced response.

If you notice tension in your body or thoughts, mindfully soften them.
If you were wrong, apologize, and skip the egoic defensiveness.
If a person always leaves you feeling down, spend less time with them.
If you notice you’re repeating a harmful habit, be honest with yourself.
If you feel anger arise, remember to bring in compassion and empathy.
If you notice you’re reacting mindlessly, slow down and create space.

These are simple examples, but I’m sure you can see what we’re going for. Many small things like this arise, even in the course of a single day. The key to genuine personal development is listening to your body and mind in the present moment. Then, respond accordingly to rewrite how you engage with your life and yourself.