In theory, the more comfortable we are, the more successful our lives should be. However, the opposite has been proven true. The more vulnerable and uncomfortable we get, the more successful we can be.  It turns out that comfort often creates complacency and avoidance; it gets in the way of what we really want.

Think about all of those difficult decisions or conversation that you have put off. In most every case, it only serves to delay the inevitable. From personal experience, when I procrastinate having a challenging conversation or making a difficult decision, it’s because I’m trying to make too many people happy. However, it comes at the expense of getting the outcome that I really want and is a drain on my energy and productivity.

In my quest to get better at getting uncomfortable and addressing things head on, I’ve sought experts on the topic, such as Dr. Brené Brown. She’s spent the past 13 years studying vulnerability, courage, worthiness, and shame and is the author of three #1 New York Times bestsellers: Daring Greatly, The Gifts of Imperfection, and Rising Strong.

After thousands of interviews with high achievers, her assessment is that our willingness to be uncomfortable is actually one of the greatest contributors to our ultimate success. Our ability to “lean into discomfort” and walk towards (not away from) uncomfortable situations defines who we are and our capacity for success.

She states that, “When we step back and examine our lives, we will find that nothing is as uncomfortable, dangerous, and hurtful as standing on the outside of our lives looking in and wondering what it would be like if we had the courage to step into the arena—whether it’s a new relationship, an important meeting, the creative process, or a difficult family conversation.”

I’d encourage you to watch Brené’s TED talk on The Power of Vulnerability. It’s one of the top 5 most watched Ted talks in history. You can also listen to her podcast interview with Tim Ferris.

I’ve mentioned this before, but regret is about what we don’t do, not what we do. When faced with a situation that requires you to be vulnerable or uncomfortable, making the choice to be brave will likely lead you to the best outcome.