Push Through or Pivot? How to Make the Right Decision When Things Get Hard by Kristy Mast

A few weeks ago, I sat in my office after yet another stressful and frustrating recording session. I was struggling with a question: “Is this resistance a sign I’m not supposed to be doing this—or am I just scared?”  The dream had started with so much clarity and excitement. But now, every step forward felt like pushing against a locked door. I wanted a neon sign from heaven: “Wrong way! Turn around!” Or even better: “Keep going! You’re almost there!” But all I had was doubt. After some prayer, reflection, and thought, I realized something: sometimes we're uncomfortable and frustrated because we're headed the wrong direction, towards the wrong goal. But not all discomfort means misalignment. Sometimes, it’s just the stretching that comes with stepping out of our comfort zone and into God’s calling

As a Christian, I have often attached "easy" with God's plan and "hard" with the idea that God must be closing that door. So when faced with difficulty, I feel the temptation to give up on the very dream God placed in my heart.

So how can we know when we are out of alignment or just uncomfortable?

Feeling resistance can mean two things:

• You’re out of alignment with what you should be doing (in which case, a pivot is needed).
• You’re in a growth zone, and your brain is just rebelling against the discomfort.

Ask Yourself:

• When I think about the outcome of this project, do I feel excited?
• Do I still believe in the "why" behind what I'm doing?
• If I could snap my fingers and the hardest parts of this were handled, would I want to keep going?

If you answered yes to these, then it’s likely just discomfort—not misalignment. And discomfort? That’s a sign of growth. 🌱

The only way through is to lean into it. You may not be able to stop the self-doubt, but you can be prepared to fight it. 

Reframing Your Mindset: Affirmations to Keep Moving Forward

When self-doubt creeps in, the key is to shift your mindset. Here are four powerful affirmations based on identity, growth, impact, and courage to help you push forward.

1. Identity-Focused Affirmation

“I am a [leader, speaker, coach, creator]. I don’t need to be perfect—I need to be present. My voice matters, my message matters, and the right people will connect with what I have to offer.”

2. Growth-Focused Affirmation

“Discomfort is a sign of growth. Every challenge I face is shaping me into the next level of who I am meant to be. I embrace the process and trust that I am exactly where I need to be.”

3. Impact-Focused Affirmation

“Someone out there needs to hear what I have to say. I am showing up for them. I am here to serve, to lead, and to inspire—perfection is not required, only action.”

4. Courage-Focused Affirmation

“Fear is just proof that I am stepping into something bigger. I refuse to let doubt hold me back from my calling. I take bold action, knowing that my purpose is greater than my hesitation.”

Final Thought

Growth and discomfort go hand in hand. If you’re feeling resistance, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re on the wrong path—it might just mean you’re leveling up.

Trust God, lean into Him, and take the next step in faith. He has equipped you for this moment. You are capable. You are ready. And you are exactly where you need to be.