Why Desirable Difficulties Are a Game-Changer for Teams and Leaders

When we talk about growth—real, meaningful growth—it’s never the smooth, easy ride that gets us there. It’s the bumps, the detours, the moments that push us right to our edge. In psychology, they’re called “desirable difficulties,” and they’re the secret sauce to unlocking our potential.

Here’s how this plays out in the real world:

1. The Mind Game:

In the world of high performance, our minds are our greatest asset. The idea of “desirable difficulties” taps into a deep truth: when we face challenges that stretch us, our brains get stronger. Just like muscles do under resistance. This is where a growth mindset kicks in. It’s about seeing those tough moments not as setbacks, but as opportunities to grow and adapt. It’s a shift in perspective that changes everything.

Example: Think about Kobe Bryant. He was known for seeking out the toughest defenders in practice, constantly challenging himself to play in the most difficult scenarios. He even practiced without a basketball at times, focusing solely on footwork and mental visualisation. These self-imposed challenges weren’t easy, but they sharpened his skills and mental toughness, making him one of the greatest players in NBA history.

2. Building Stronger Teams:

Great teams aren’t forged in comfort; they’re forged in the fire of shared challenges. Sociology backs this up. When a group faces difficulties together, they’re more likely to bond, to understand each other and to find innovative solutions. This is the essence of resilience—a team’s ability to adapt and bounce back (or bound forward), no matter what comes their way. It’s about turning the storm into a catalyst for deeper connection and stronger performance.

Example: Look at the story of the 2015-2016 Leicester City football team. Against all odds, this underdog team won the Premier League, one of the most competitive soccer leagues in the world. They faced numerous challenges—limited resources, injuries and intense competition. But these difficulties only made the team more cohesive and determined. They used their struggles as a rallying point, and it forged a bond that led to one of the most extraordinary achievements in sports history.

3. Learning That Sticks:

In the world of learning and development, the principle is the same. We know that when learning is a little bit hard, it sticks better. This is about creating an environment where struggle isn’t just accepted—it’s embraced. Because that’s where true learning happens. It’s not about getting it right the first time; it’s about being willing to get it wrong, reflect and come back stronger (bounding forward).

Example: Consider how pilots are trained using flight simulators. These simulators are designed to create challenging scenarios—turbulence, engine failure, emergency landings—that pilots must navigate. This training is tough, stressful and sometimes overwhelming, but it’s incredibly effective. Pilots who go through this rigorous, scenario-based training are far better prepared to handle real-life emergencies, with a deep, ingrained understanding of how to react under pressure.

So, whether you’re coaching an athlete, leading a team or pushing yourself to new heights, remember this: the difficulties you face are not barriers to performance, engagement and improvement, they are bridges. Lean into them - and watch what happens.

Stay in the struggle. That’s where your potential lives.