When Change Feels Hard, Scale It
Psychology Today
by Joanna Hardis LISW-SFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
When facing difficult changes, it's not a lack of motivation but our ability to tolerate discomfort that often stands in the way. The article highlights how cell phones and instant gratification erode our capacity for distress tolerance, essential for enduring tough emotions and maintaining focus on long-term goals.
Distress tolerance refers to managing emotional discomfort without letting it disrupt your actions or relationships. When we struggle with this skill, our behaviors are often dictated by immediate emotions, seeking relief rather than addressing the root issue.
Examples of how emotional discomfort manifests vary widely—from guilt and anxiety when setting boundaries to boredom or self-doubt in starting new routines. Recognizing these feelings is key to understanding how they hinder progress.
Scaling change involves breaking down overwhelming goals into manageable steps based on personal comfort levels. Just as training for a half-marathon starts with smaller increments, behavioral changes should begin with less challenging actions to build confidence and reduce resistance.
By scaling change and building distress tolerance, individuals can achieve sustainable behavior shifts, leading to improved mental health outcomes and a greater ability to handle life's challenges effectively.
Verticals
healthmental-health
Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/25/2026