Easy vs. Hard

Welcome to The Brighter Side of Everything.

This newsletter serves a simple purpose → To help you build optimism, resilience and a solution-focused perspective.

Each week, I’ll share actionable insights that not only brighten your day but position you to be a leader within your own life and seize life’s opportunities.

Read time: 12-15 minutes.

• Easy vs. Hard - The lesson behind every challenge we avoid.

• Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.

• Dr. Howard Tucker - Still going strong at 102.

• Bookmarks - 50 Great Myths of Popular Psychology by Scott O. Lilienfeld.

• A Bright Idea to Consider - The secret is, there is no secret.

• A Previous Post - The only limits are those we place on ourselves.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

• Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.

Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️

To our newest readers, welcome!

Whether you’re a new reader or you’ve been here for a while, your support and engagement mean the world, so thank you.

This week, I found myself reflecting on the moments we’re faced with a choice.

Take the easy way, or lean into the challenge.

Staying with what’s comfortable is often tempting, but what do we miss when we always opt for the shortcut?

We explore what happens when we choose the hard path, and why it might be the most rewarding decision you can make.

I was also inspired by the remarkable story of Dr. Howard Tucker, a neurologist who, at over 100 years old, is still practicing medicine.

You read that right.

So this week I’m asking the question:

If we never choose the hard path, how will we know how far we can go?

See you on the Brighter Side,

Chris

P.S. Please feel free to send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.

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A few days ago, I sat down to put a simple idea into words.

Something I wanted to share with my son.

I started with two lines:

Easy builds comfort.

Hard builds character.

I wanted him to understand that the easy path, while tempting, can hold us back and even betray us over time.

As I wrote, those two lines grew into 4, then 6, then 8, each verse revealing how much we gain when we choose the harder way.

Suddenly, the lesson was just as much for me as it was for him.

Let’s start by sharing that piece:

Easy builds comfort.
Hard builds character.

Easy feels good now.
Hard feels good later.

Easy keeps things the same.
Hard helps you change.

Easy is the shortcut.
Hard is the lesson.

Easy avoids pain.
Hard teaches patience.

Easy waits for motivation.
Hard shows discipline.

Easy looks for quick wins.
Hard builds lasting success.

Easy fears failure.
Hard learns from it.

Easy stays in comfort zones.
Hard breaks through limits.

Easy keeps you safe.
Hard sets you free.

Easy helps you survive.
Hard teaches you how to live.

Don’t settle for easy.
Find the extraordinary in you.

This isn’t just a string of catchy lines.

It’s a blueprint for a life that’s more than just “fine.”

It’s a call to stop settling for comfort and to start chasing what truly matters.

Growth, meaning and the kind of satisfaction that only comes from doing hard things.

Why We Gravitate Toward Easy

Let’s be honest.

We all love shortcuts.

Who doesn’t want to skip the struggle and get straight to the reward?

Our brains are actually wired for this.

Neuroscientists say the human brain is designed to conserve energy and avoid discomfort whenever possible.

That’s why we love routines, habits and the path of least resistance.

But here’s the catch: what feels good in the moment doesn’t always feel good in the long run.

That extra hour of sleep feels great now, but you might regret skipping your morning workout when your energy dips later.

Scrolling social media instead of tackling a challenging task is easy but it won’t move you forward.

The Hidden Cost of Shortcuts

It’s tempting to look for shortcuts, life hacks, or the easiest way out.

Especially when you’re tired, busy, or just want a quick win.

But there’s the catch.

Every time you opt for the easy path, you’re actually missing out on something far more valuable than a few saved minutes.

You’re missing out on the learning that comes from real effort.

When you knuckle down and do the hard work.

Whether it’s learning a new skill, having a tough conversation, or pushing through something challenging.

You’re not just getting the task done.

You’re building your skillset, your confidence and resilience.

The next time a similar challenge comes along, you’ll know exactly how to handle it.

And it’ll feel much easier, which gives your confidence a boost.

That’s real progress.

But, if you always choose the shortcut, you end up stuck in the same place.

The challenge doesn’t go away.

It just keeps coming back and worse yet, you’re no better prepared for it than you were before.

You’ve all heard the definition of insanity right?

“Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.”

If you never push through the discomfort, you never actually change.

Growth happens in the stretch zone, not the comfort zone.

Every time you choose to face the hard stuff head-on, you’re making an investment in your future self.

The reward isn’t just getting through today’s challenge, it’s knowing that next time, you’ll be stronger, smarter and more capable.

So next time you’re tempted by a shortcut, ask yourself:

“What might I be missing if I skip the hard work?”

Chances are, the real prize is on the other side of the effort.

The Science Behind Doing Hard Things

So why bother with the hard stuff?

Because that’s where the magic happens.

Research backs this up:

• Growth Mindset: Psychologist Carol Dweck’s work on growth mindset shows that people who embrace challenges and see effort as a path to mastery are more likely to achieve success and happiness. In one study, people with a growth mindset were 34% more likely to achieve long-term goals (Dweck, 2006).

• Resilience: The American Psychological Association reports that facing adversity builds resilience. The more you push through tough times, the better you get at handling whatever life throws your way.

• Long-Term Satisfaction: A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who pursue meaningful, challenging goals report higher life satisfaction than those who stick to easy, short-term pleasures.

Lessons Hidden in Hardship

When you choose the hard path, you’re signing up for more than just struggle.

You’re signing up for lessons that can’t be learned any other way:

• Patience: Waiting for results, sticking with something when it’s not immediately rewarding, these are skills you only develop by doing hard things.

• Discipline: Motivation comes and goes, but discipline is what keeps you moving forward. Every time you show up, even when you don’t feel like it, you’re building a muscle that will serve you for life.

• Failure as Feedback: Easy avoids failure at all costs. Hard embraces it, knowing every mistake is a chance to learn and improve.

We’ve all faced those moments when the easy path calls our name.

Maybe it’s staying in a job that feels safe but doesn’t excite us, or avoiding a difficult conversation because we dread confrontation.

Sometimes, it’s choosing to skip a workout or putting off an overwhelming task.

But if you think back, it’s usually the times you took the risk, had the talk, made the change, that stand out the most.

Those are the moments you remember and feel proud of.

The hard path isn’t just about struggle.

It’s about growth, learning and discovering what you’re truly capable of.

How to Start Choosing Hard (Without Burning Out)

Okay, so you’re convinced: hard is good.

But how do you start choosing the hard path, especially when life is already busy and overwhelming?

Here are a few simple tips:

• Start Small: Choose one challenge to tackle today, maybe it’s waking up 30 minutes earlier or having a tough conversation you’ve avoided.

• Reframe Discomfort: Instead of seeing discomfort as a signal to stop, recognise it as a sign you’re growing. Remind yourself, “This is what progress feels like.”

• Embrace the Process: Celebrate your effort, not just the outcome. Progress is about showing up, even when results aren’t immediate.

• Find Support: Share your goals with a friend, join a group or find a mentor. Accountability helps big time.

• Reflect and Learn: After facing a challenge, take a moment to reflect. What did you learn? How did you grow? This turns every challenge into a stepping stone.

My Takeaway

Choosing the hard path isn’t about making life unnecessarily difficult.

It’s about refusing to settle for “just okay.”

It’s about discovering what you’re really made of and finding the extraordinary that’s been hiding inside you all along.

Next time you’re faced with a choice between easy and hard, remember one thing.

Easy keeps you where you are.

Hard takes you where you want to go.

Don’t settle for easy.

Find the extraordinary in you.

What about you?
What’s one “hard” thing you will try this week?

Share your thoughts by hitting reply, I’d love to cheer you on!

Have 3 minutes to spare, check out this short video for added inspiration:

• What happens when our brain goes blank?

• Gorgeous images of Earth from space.

• 3 signs that you could be a highly sensitive person.

• 30 minutes with a stranger.

• Runaway zebra named Ed caught after a week on the run.

Ever wondered what it takes to live past 100?

I mean not just survive, but thrive?

I’m not talking about shuffling around the house or counting down the days.

I mean waking up with purpose, learning new things and making a difference each day.

That’s precisely what Dr. Howard Tucker is doing.

At 102, he’s not just the world’s oldest practicing doctor.

He’s a walking, talking reminder that age is just a number.

And that curiosity, optimism and drive may be the real fountains of youth.

Still Going Strong at 102

Dr. Tucker’s story reads like a highlight reel of the last century.

He began practicing medicine in 1947, serving as a Navy neurologist during World War II.

And, just for fun, he earned a law degree at 67, passing the Ohio State Bar while still working full-time as a doctor.

Even after the hospital where he taught closed in 2022, he didn’t slow down.

He lectures, consults on legal cases, and (thanks to his grandson) has become a TikTok sensation with over 100,000 followers.

In 2021, Guinness World Records officially recognised Dr. Tucker as the world’s oldest practicing doctor.

At the age of 98 years and 231 days, he earned this title for his ongoing work as a neurologist in Cleveland, Ohio.

Inspired to apply after reading about the world’s oldest barber, Dr. Tucker considers this milestone a crowning achievement in his remarkable medical career.

But what really sets Dr. Tucker apart isn’t just his age or his resume.

It’s his attitude toward life, work and aging.

Retirement: The Enemy of Longevity?

Here’s a statement that might ruffle some feathers:

Dr. Tucker believes “retirement is the enemy of longevity.”

That’s right.

For him, the idea of stopping work just because you’ve hit a certain age is not only unappealing, it’s downright dangerous for your health and happiness.

He says, “You have to have some purpose in life - to get up in the morning and know what you are about.”

Without that purpose, he says, people risk “shrivelling up and ending in a nursing home.”

He doesn’t understand the appeal of endless leisure.

“I don’t understand golfing three days a week,” he jokes.

Instead, he urges anyone who does retire to find hobbies or community work, anything that gives your brain a reason to stay sharp and engaged.

Think about that for a second.

How often do we equate retirement with freedom and happiness?

Dr. Tucker flips that narrative on its head, suggesting that meaning and daily challenges are what really keep us alive.

The Power of Lifelong Learning

Dr. Tucker’s life is a masterclass in staying curious.

He’s made it a point to keep up with technology, learning to use smartphones and computers well into his 90s (with plenty of help from his grandson).

As mentioned, he even passed the bar exam in his late 60s simply because he was interested in law.

His advice?

Never stop learning.

Whether it’s picking up a new skill, reading or simply staying up-to-date with the world.

Keeping your mind active is non-negotiable for a long and fulfilling life.

Now, you might be wondering if Dr. Tucker has some strict diet or fitness regime.

The answer?

Not really.

He credits his longevity to moderation, especially when it comes to nutrition and alcohol.

He never smoked, only drinks on weekends and enjoys everything in reasonable amounts.

He’s always found ways to stay active, from swimming and jogging to skiing.

Until a neck injury at 80 made him swap skis for snowshoes.

But the key isn’t extreme discipline, it’s consistency and balance.

Dr. Tucker does acknowledge that he hit the genetic jackpot.

His mother lived to 84, his father to 96 and he’s managed to avoid major illnesses like heart disease, cancer and dementia.

But he quickly points out that genetics are just a starting point.

So, while you can’t pick your parents, you can absolutely pick your habits.

Happiness and Optimism: The Ultimate Medicine

Perhaps the most infectious part of Dr. Tucker’s philosophy is his optimism.

He insists that happiness (both at work and at home) is essential.

He doesn’t dwell on death, instead, he focuses on living.

He’s been through the Great Depression, World War II, personal injuries and even COVID (which he shrugged off with mild symptoms at 100).

Through it all, he’s stayed positive and forward-looking.

Dr. Tucker’s life challenges so many of our assumptions about what it means to grow old.

Do we have to slow down?

Is retirement the only reward for decades of work?

Are new technologies and hobbies only for the young?

He proves the answer to all these questions is a resounding “no.”

The very things we often associate with youth, curiosity, engagement and a sense of purpose, are keys to thriving well into old age.

So, let’s ask ourselves: What gives us purpose?

How can we keep learning, growing, and connecting, no matter our age?

Are we living daily, or just counting the days?

So, what can we actually do to follow in Dr. Tucker’s footsteps?

Here are five practical lessons from his life that you can start applying today:

• Stay Purposefully Engaged
  Dr. Tucker calls retirement “the enemy of longevity.” Whether through work, volunteering, or hobbies, having a reason to get up every morning keeps your mind sharp and your spirit alive.

• Never Stop Learning
  Lifelong curiosity is essential. Dr. Tucker continues to read, study and get excited about new discoveries, proving that challenging your mind is a lifelong pursuit.

• Move Your Body Consistently
  Regular physical activity, like walking, swimming, or snowshoeing, supports brain and body health. Even moderate, consistent movement can make a big difference.

• Eat for Brain Health and Practice Moderation
  Dr. Tucker recommends a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, fish and healthy fats, similar to the MIND diet. He enjoys treats in moderation, emphasising consistency over perfection.

• Optimism and Joy
  A positive outlook and finding happiness in daily life are key. Dr. Tucker’s enthusiasm for his work and excitement for learning new things show how optimism fuels longevity and well-being. Can we please shout this one from the rooftops!?

My Takeaway

Dr. Tucker’s story isn’t solely about living a long life.

It’s about living a rich life with meaning, connection and curiosity.

His “secret sauce” isn’t a miracle diet or a magic gene.

It’s the relentless pursuit of purpose, the joy of learning and the wisdom of moderation.

If there’s one thing I hope you take away from his example, it’s this:

Don’t let age (or anyone else’s expectations) define what you’re capable of.

Stay curious.

Stay connected.

And above all, keep finding reasons to get up in the morning and say, “What’s next?”

Because, as Dr. Tucker shows us, the real enemy of longevity isn’t time.

It’s giving up on what makes life worth living.

This week, I’m diving into a book that shatters some of the most persistent (and surprising) myths about how our minds work.

If you love peeling back the layers on commonly held beliefs, this week’s recommendation is an eye-opening guide to separating fact from fiction.

I’ve had 50 Great Myths of Popular Psychology on my reading list for ages, literally years!

I’m so glad I finally dove in.

This book takes aim at those everyday beliefs that sneak into our conversations, classrooms and even our decision-making.

Often without us realising they’re not true at all.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

The authors don’t just rattle off a list of busted myths.

Instead, they use each misconception as a springboard to teach you how to spot the difference between science and pseudoscience.

What is pseudoscience?

A set of beliefs or practices that say they are scientific but don't have proof, thorough testing, or follow the scientific method.

From the idea that memory works like a video camera, to the notion that handwriting reveals your personality, each chapter is a mini-lesson in critical thinking.

The writing is clear, lively, and pretty funny, making it accessible whether you’re a psych student or just someone who loves a good myth-busting moment.

What Makes It Stand Out

What really sets this book apart is how it goes beyond simple debunking.

For every myth, the authors dig into where the idea came from, why it’s stuck around and what the research actually says.

They even include a “mythbusting kit”.

A handy set of questions and strategies you can use to evaluate claims you hear in everyday life.

Some of the examples are genuinely surprising.

Like learning there’s no strong evidence that matching teaching styles to learning styles actually helps students, or that our memories are far more flexible (and unreliable) than we’d like to think.

When I started reading, I was utterly captivated.

My mind kept moving from surprised, to validated, to skeptical, over and over again with each myth they tackled.

It really sparks your curiosity about what we think we know and what’s actually true.

Practical Lessons You Can Use

One of the best things about this book is how it arms you with tools for real life.

The “mythbusting kit” offers practical questions.

Like “What’s the source?” and “Is there real scientific evidence?”

You can use these questions whenever you hear a bold claim, whether it’s on social media, in the news, or even from friends and family.

I found myself using these tips almost immediately, catching myself before I accepted something just because it “sounded right.”

The book also encourages you to stay curious and humble.

Offering a great reminder that it’s okay to change your mind when you learn something new.

And that being a little skeptical can make you a better friend, parent or colleague.

My Takeaway

Reading this book is a bit like being handed a flashlight in a room full of half-truths and urban legends.

It doesn’t just make you a better consumer of psychological info.

It makes you a sharper thinker, period.

The approachable style means you don’t need a background in psychology to get a lot out of it, but if you do, you’ll appreciate the depth and references.

While some feel the book lumps together genuine scientific debates with more clear-cut myths, most agree it’s a much-needed antidote to the flood of misinformation out there.

If you’re curious, skeptical, or just love a good “Wait, really?” moment, this one’s for you.

Got a recommendation?

Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.

The Lesson

Ever scrolled through social media and wondered if everyone else has found a shortcut to success?

You might have tried the latest diet, the newest productivity hack, or the trendiest workout, hoping this time it would finally “click.”

Here’s the not-so-glamorous truth: the secret is, there is no secret.

Real change doesn’t come from magic tricks or hidden shortcuts.

It comes from showing up for the basics, over and over again.

Consistency over intensity, progress over perfection and fundamentals over fads.

It’s not flashy, but it works.

Go Deeper

Getting caught up in the excitement of a new trend or a promise of overnight results is easy.

But if you look at anyone who’s truly excelled.

Whether it’s a musician, an athlete, or someone who’s built a happy life.

You’ll notice a pattern.

They keep coming back to the basics, even when it’s boring or hard.

Think about learning to play the piano.

Practicing for five minutes every day will take you further than practicing for five hours once a month.

The same goes for saving money, building relationships, or getting healthier.

Consistency is the quiet hero that slowly but surely builds real results.

Intensity, like a crash diet or an all-night study session, might give you a quick boost, but it rarely lasts.

And chasing perfection?

That usually leads to frustration and giving up.

The fundamentals may not be glamorous, but they’re what actually move us forward.

Steady progress, even if it feels slow, is where lasting change is created.

Practical Steps

Here are a few simple ways to put this into practice:

1. Pick One Basic Habit: Choose one simple thing you want to work on. Like drinking a glass of water right when you wake up, taking a ten-minute walk, or reading a page of a book each night. Then stick to it.

2. Make It Tiny: Set a goal so easy you can’t talk yourself out of it. Remember, it’s about showing up, not showing off.

3. Track Your Streak: Mark each day you stick with your habit on a calendar, in an app, or even with a sticky note on your fridge. Celebrate the streak, not just the outcome.

4. Remind Yourself: When you see a flashy new fad or feel tempted by a “quick fix,” write yourself a note: “Basics > Fads.” Stick it somewhere you’ll see it.

5. Reflect Weekly: At the end of the week, ask yourself: Did I show up? Did I make progress, even if it was tiny? Give yourself credit for building consistency.

My Takeaway

I’ll admit, I’ve fallen for my share of shiny “secrets” over the years.

But every time, I end up back at the basics.

Doing the simple things, over and over.

That’s where real change lives. If you’re waiting for a magic wand, I hate to break it to you, they’re just illusions.

Real progress comes from consistent effort and dedication.

It's about putting in the work day after day, even when it feels mundane or challenging.

Embrace the fundamentals and you’ll discover the true key to success.

If you keep showing up, you’ll be amazed at what you can build.

So, what’s your “no-secret” move this week?

Hit reply and let me know.

I’d love to hear your story and cheer you on.

Here’s to progress, not perfection.

One simple step at a time.

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It's a powerful cycle of hope and optimism.

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