The Beauty of Choosing Growth Over Stagnation
- Stephen McConnell

- Mar 28
- 2 min read

Growth is painful. Stagnation is painful.
The key difference lies in where those pains lead you. The pain of growth is the discomfort of progress, while the pain of stagnation traps you in a cycle of frustration and inertia.
You’re starting to choose that growth pain over the fixed pain—and that’s a beautiful transformation. Growth pain isn’t about suffering; it’s about stepping outside your comfort zone to embrace the possibilities on the other side. Every time you choose growth, you’re actively rewriting your story and forging a path toward a more fulfilling life.
Stagnation feels safe, but it comes at a cost. The fixed pain of staying where you are robs you of opportunities, potential, and progress. On the other hand, growth pain, while challenging, leads to breakthroughs, resilience, and transformation.
How to Embrace Growth Pain Over Fixed Pain:
Reframe Discomfort: View discomfort as a sign of progress, not something to avoid.
Focus on the Outcome: Remind yourself of the long-term benefits that come with choosing growth.
Build Emotional Resilience: Develop the tools to navigate challenges and grow through adversity.
Take Small Steps: Growth doesn’t have to happen overnight—consistent effort is the key.
Celebrate Wins: Recognize and celebrate every milestone along the journey.
Reflective Questions:
Are you currently experiencing growth pain or fixed pain? How is it impacting your life?
What would your life look like if you consistently chose growth over stagnation?
How can you start taking small steps toward growth today?
I empower middle managers to lead themselves with clarity and confidence, enabling them to inspire and lead their teams with authenticity and purpose. I can help you navigate the discomfort of growth with purpose and intention. My coaching systems, empowers you to embrace challenges, develop resilience, and transform your mindset to achieve your goals.


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