About DBG

Discomfort Breeds Growth. What is it? What does it mean? In short, it's many things: a theory, an affirmation, a mantra, a philosophy. 

In recent years, I've heard many reactions to the statement. To be honest, I didn't expect it to be controversial; it started for me, by me, so the positive sentiment was always clear in my mind. Generally, most seem to like the concept, even if they don't live by it, but there are a few who question it. Good! Question everything. Draw your own informed and well-thought conclusions. In the words of a close family friend, "discomfort doesn't cause anything, it is the result of something. And it can usually be treated by antibiotics! Or maybe putting on a pair of comfortable shoes..."; I can't disagree with that statement at all, but I do believe it is just the preemptive event in this cycle following the Law of Cause and Effect. This person is focusing on the cause creating the effect of discomfort; I focus on discomfort as the cause of effective growth, presenting in many forms. In fact, it's exactly the point to seek those causes of discomfort to further the cycle. 

Theoretically if x event is a cause, and the effect is discomfort, then discomfort will be a cause, and the effect is growth, then growth will be the cause, and the effect is what? The cycle must continue, according to the Law of Cause and Effect. 

Defining Growth: 

Again, DBG is a theory, concept, mantra, whatever you want to call it. Whatever you want to call it. This mysterious independent variable, "growth", really can be defined in any terms. Personally, I put a lot of stock into the idea that every experience big, small, positive, and negative, is additive to the human experience as a whole, so this growth is really a nameless, faceless variable until defined on your own terms. 

Two simple examples: 

1. Giving a speech to a group of strangers can feel overwhelming and scary before, definitely uncomfortable, but often times the growth factor as a result is an increase in confidence. 

2. Walking to class in winter may be cold and physically uncomfortable, but the result is not only an increase in physical fitness, but an increase in mental fortitude, discipline, and a higher threshold for physical discomfort. 

The growth factor is not one namable thing, but a function of the discomfort. 

The goal of DBG as a blog is inherently selfish: putting yourself out there is an uncomfortable thing, but I trust that its an opportunity for my own growth. 

I hope to document my past and future experiences, with the goal of uncovering the growth factors, finding the "what" in the above theoretical formula. If growth became a cause, what was the effect? 

By dissecting my own life, maybe others will be inspired to analyze their cycle of Cause and Effect more. I implore readers to test the theory, with intention and reflection, and see what they come up with. 

If you made it this far, leave a comment below describing a time you observed DBG in your own life: was it introducing yourself to your professor on the first day of class, starting a new job, going to the movies alone? 

Until next time, find your factor. 

JJ