How do you balance the pressure to achieve long-term goals while also focusing on short-term wins that help you stay energized? In this solo episode, I tackle a common struggle for leaders and founders—the interplay between pain and gain, and how to strategically redefine your journey toward success.  We often hear phrases like "no pain, no gain," but what does that really mean in the context of personal growth and leadership? Does every step towards success have to be difficult, or are there moments when taking the easier path is actually the smarter choice? I challenge the traditional mindset that equates success solely with struggle and sacrifice. Instead, let’s explore how embracing both short-term victories and long-term visions can help you build resilience without burning out. Whether it's taking a tactical pause to restore energy or reevaluating whether your current efforts are truly contributing to your future goals, this episode is all about making smarter decisions that lead to sustainable success. Leadership doesn't have to be a constant uphill battle—sometimes, it’s about finding a path that allows you to thrive, not just survive.    In this episode, you will learn about: The surprising value of short-term wins and why they are crucial for reaching long-term goals how to recognize when you need immediate gains to restore your energy and focus why sometimes it’s okay to step back and make decisions that prioritize your well-being how the phrase "no pain, no gain" can be misunderstood and misapplied in our daily routines examples from my own experience of navigating these challenges, and how small changes can create lasting momentum Stay safe and #standwithukraine, Anna   Resources: Join the free yoga classes I teach every Monday and Thursday: https://annaliebel.as.me/lytmorning  Book a Mindshifting Intensive: https://annaliebel.as.me/strategycall    Support Ukraine: https://u24.gov.ua/