Difficult vs. Challenging: How One Word Can Hold You Back
How often do you say to yourself, “This is so difficult?” The word alone can often feel paralyzing and draining, with a sense of overwhelm. But what if we swapped it for “challenging” instead? This small shift in language and mindset can completely transform how we approach adversity.
“Difficult” carries weight. It sounds like something we want to avoid or something that might beat us down. It feels fixed, discouraging, and final. On the other hand, “challenging” evokes energy. It’s a word that implies possibility, movement, and even adventure. Challenges invite us to engage, to problem-solve, and most importantly, to grow.
Psychology 101: When we reframe a situation as a “challenge”, we activate a more curious and open mindset. Instead of shutting down, we can lean into it. Instead of procrastinating, we can be prepared and get curious. The words we use set the tone for our mindset and, ultimately, our outcomes.
“Challenges are what make life interesting, and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful” ~ Joshua J. Marine
Here’s how to embrace the difference:
Difficult:
Feels defeating. “This is too hard”
Creates resistance. It invites avoidance, anxiety, and a sense of paralysis.
We shut down. It evokes the thought: “I don’t want to.”
Challenging:
Feels motivating. “ I can do this”
Creates engagement. It sparks curiosity, creativity, and forward motion.
We feel open and inviting. It evokes the thought “Let’s see what I’m capable of.”
Now, here's Your "Challenge"...Should you Choose to Accept It:
Next time you find yourself dreading something that feels difficult, pause. Ask yourself: What would change if I saw this as a challenge instead? Let that question open the door to growth, resilience, and maybe even a little excitement.