The Dichotomy of Hard Choices: When to Push and When to Pause ⏯️

---

In my last two Thursday Threes, I talked about two ideas that, at first glance, seem to contradict each other. First, there’s the idea of showing up for training even when you don’t feel like it—using repetition, reward, and discipline to get it done. Steven Pressfield calls this “turning pro,” and it’s all about ditching the amateur mindset that waits around for motivation. Pros show up no matter what.

Then, the next week, I brought up the danger of relying too much on “Ignore and Override.” You know the drill—pushing through stress, exhaustion, and emotions because you just don’t have time or the inclination to deal with them. It feels like the fastest way forward, but a lot of the time, it's just kicking the can down the road; doubling your problems.

So, which is it? Do we push through feelings of avoidance, or do we stop and listen?

The answer is both.

Because underneath it all, these ideas share the same core message: do the uncomfortable thing.

Sometimes, the uncomfortable thing is stepping away from your desk and training even when you’d rather skip it. Other times, it’s acknowledging you're burnt out and need a break (then actually taking it). The trick is knowing which one you need in the moment.

When it comes to fitness, consistency and discipline matter. If you give in to every little excuse, you won’t get anywhere. But if you constantly override signals from your body—ignoring pain, fatigue, or stress—you’re setting yourself up for burnout or injury.

So how do you decide?

A good starting point is to look for where you feel the most resistance. Drinking an extra double espresso and pushing through is often easier than addressing your sleep routine. Skipping that run is easier than lacing up your shoes. Where you feel the most resistance is often the direction you should be heading; it acts like a compass guiding the way.

Being strong, fit, and healthy isn't just about crushing iron and eating plenty of protein (though it's a good start). It's also about making the right "uncomfortable" choice in each moment—whether that's pushing through or slowing down.

---

P.S. If you enjoyed this week's Thursday Three, please share it with a friend.

Thanks,

Jamie