Kasturi Sinha says, “Success is a Fruit of Discomfort”
Success is often perceived as the ultimate destination—a point at which comfort, stability, and contentment are finally achieved. Paradoxically, the journey to success is rarely marked by these qualities. Instead, success demands a departure from comfort and a willingness to embrace restlessness, stress, and discomfort. Comfort, on the other hand, is seductive. It offers the illusion of safety and satisfaction, lulling us into a state of complacency. However, this state is antithetical to growth and progress. When we are comfortable, we are less likely to take risks, challenge ourselves, or strive for something greater. Comfort zones are breeding grounds for mediocrity, where potential remains untapped and dreams remain unfulfilled.
It is further followed by restlessness, and ‘restlessness’ is the spark that ignites the pursuit of success. It is the inner dissatisfaction that propels us forward, urging us to seek more than what we currently have. This restlessness drives innovation, creativity, and ambition. It forces us to question the status quo and envision a better future. Consider the stories of successful individuals in various fields. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, was notoriously restless. His dissatisfaction with existing technology pushed him to create groundbreaking products that revolutionized the industry. Similarly, athletes like Michael Jordan used their restlessness to fuel relentless training and improve their skills, leading them to achieve legendary status.
And then comes the stress factor. ‘Stress’ is often viewed negatively, but it can be a powerful motivator. Positive stress, or eustress, challenges us to perform at our best. It sharpens our focus, enhances our problem-solving abilities, and helps us build resilience. The path to success is laden with obstacles, setbacks, and failures. It is through the experience of stress that we develop the fortitude to overcome these challenges. For instance, entrepreneurs often face immense stress in building their businesses. The pressure to secure funding, develop products, and attract customers can be overwhelming. Yet, it is precisely this stress that pushes them to innovate, adapt, and ultimately succeed.
Above all these, ‘discomfort’ has a vital role to play, and it acts as a catalyst for growth. True growth occurs outside of our comfort zones. Discomfort forces us to confront our limitations, learn new skills, and expand our capabilities. It is in moments of discomfort that we discover our true potential. Take the example of Thomas Edison, whose journey to invent the electric light bulb was fraught with failure and frustration. Edison’s willingness to endure discomfort and persist through countless experiments led to one of the most significant inventions in history. Similarly, public speakers and performers often experience anxiety before stepping onto the stage. This discomfort, however, is essential for them to connect with their audience and deliver impactful performances. By embracing discomfort, they hone their craft and achieve success in their respective fields.
If we talk about the calm life and success, then it falls a myth. A calm, untroubled life may seem appealing, but it is rarely the breeding ground for success. A calm life lacks the challenges and stimuli necessary for growth and achievement. Success requires a certain level of ‘chaos and disruption’ to foster creativity and drive. History is replete with examples of individuals who disrupted their calm lives in pursuit of success. Nelson Mandela sacrificed personal peace and endured imprisonment to fight for justice and equality in South Africa. His restless pursuit of a noble cause brought profound change to his nation and the world.
Thus, success is not a destination reached by staying within the confines of comfort and calm. It is the result of embracing restlessness, enduring stress, and stepping out of our comfort zones. The journey to success demands resilience, perseverance, and a willingness to face discomfort head-on. By understanding and accepting this reality, we can unlock our full potential and achieve the success we aspire to.
