The Growth Curve



Why It Gets Worse Before It Gets Better

Growth is not linear. It often looks like a setback before it becomes a step forward. The dip is where growth gets real.

Growth doesn’t always feel like progress. I hear and read this everywhere and yet when it shows up in the form of confusion, doubt, or the urge to quit...it feels exhausting. If we can push through that tricky part of the journey, the destination is usually worth it. Of course, it's easier said than done. So below, I’ll break down the logic and share a bit of what it’s looks like in my own journey.

Logic

The "Valley of Despair" Is a Feature, Not a Bug: The “Valley of Despair” is part of the Dunning-Kruger effect curve. When we start a new challenge, we usually start off with confidence simply because we don’t yet realize what we don’t know. But once reality sets in, our confidence drops... and that’s where many give up. It’s also where real growth begins. Competence starts when the illusion of competence breaks. 

From Unknown-Unknowns to Known-Unknowns. One of the most powerful shifts in learning is moving something from “I didn’t even know that I didn’t know this” to “I know what I need to learn.” Turning unknown-unknowns into known-unknowns gives us something to work with. It will feel like we are moving in the wrong direction, but we really are gaining conscience of how long the ride will be.

It's also true that all dips are not worth pushing through, and that’s the tricky part to decide. 

My two cents:

It’s not always easy to tell the difference between a dip worth pushing through and one that’s signaling it’s time to quit. In theory it seems easy, but when you walk the path it’s tricky. You can have all the wisdom and knowledge in your head and still find yourself wondering: Is this the struggle before the breakthrough, or the universe telling me to let go?

Here’s the best filter I’ve found: if it still matters on a clear day (not just in the fog of exhaustion or frustration) then it’s probably a dip. If the only reason you’re still holding on is pride, guilt or momentum, then maybe it’s time to let go. I believe that real growth isn’t just about "pushing through," sometimes we need to stop and question if it’s worth the effort. The dip isn’t just a test of grit; it’s a test of character. If your “why” still holds up in the hard moments, it’s worth pushing through.

APPLYING THE TEST

Run the “Still Worth It?” Test: Ask yourself: “If this were easy today, would I still want it?” If yes - keep going. If no - consider quitting.

Map Your Dip: Draw the curve: Where did it feel easy? When did it start to feel hard? Label where you are now, just acknowledging that you are in "The Valley of Despair" can make all the difference.

Name 3 Unknowns: Write down three things that confuse or overwhelm you right now. Then next to each, add: “How could I learn this? or who can help me with this?”

Turn Insight into Action: For every insight, commit to one action. Insight without movement is procrastination in disguise.

Make a Recovery Routine: When you're in the dip, you don’t need a new strategy, you need rest and rhythm. Pick one habit that grounds you (walks, writing diary, meditation) and do it. Sometimes the way out of the dip comes from a clear mind.

Best wishes to you :)

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