When we are faced with different choices, it is understandable and often expected to go with the path that is easier. Being in our comfort zone feels good. You and I can both admit it. I also see myself unconsciously gravitating towards the easier paths most of the time. I really want to learn algorithms but I know it’s a tough subject to learn. I am not sure whether if I were to pull through it, my learning curve will grow exponentially or it will be a complete nightmare of me dragging myself out of bed to finish assignments. In this case, I did contemplate the harder, more painful path that could guarantee a higher learning curve and more satisfaction because I could get over my fear. But also in the back of my mind, I know that I enjoy doing something else and I can make better use of my time. But the question of what if I could actually learn algorithms and be good at it always looms over me.

So what should I and you do about the what-if question? Perhaps if we are faced with two paths or two choices that are relatively equal (i.e. learning both algorithms and history probably won’t decide my career path forever and at the end of the day they are just subjects in an undergraduate program even if I fail, my life won’t be over), take the path that is more difficult and more painful in the short term. The path with short-term pain probably has long-term associated with it. Or even if it doesn’t, it’s not the end of the world. The worst feeling is always wondering what that challenge feels like.

Long-term gain is what we should strive forward.