Have you ever had a goal that should be simple but somehow feels impossible? For me, this year, it’s been building a consistent meditation practice. While I’m crushing most of my other goals—career, fitness, personal growth—meditation feels like dragging a boulder uphill. What gives?

Inspired by Adam Alter’s Anatomy of a Breakthrough, I decided to get curious instead of frustrated. Through a “friction audit,” I uncovered emotional, cognitive, and behavioral barriers holding me back. Spoiler: it’s not just about sitting quietly; it’s about reframing the grind, borrowing from my wins, and treating personal goals like the projects I tackle at work.

If meditation (or any goal) feels like a struggle for you too, this post will guide you through unpacking the resistance, finding momentum, and embracing the messy middle. Let’s grow through the grind together.