I did 100 squats at the gym on Monday. In the moment, it was challenging and fun. But today, every step was sore. Sitting down was awkward. Walking up stairs felt impossible. But soreness is proof of growth. It means my muscles were challenged in a new way, and they’re rebuilding stronger than before. The same is true when building new skills. The fumbling, the awkwardness, the feeling of being “bad at it”—that’s the professional version of muscle soreness. And it’s a privilege to experience, because it means you’re in the process of growth. Just like in the gym, consistency matters. Every rep compounds. Every attempt rewires your brain a little more. And eventually, the thing that once left you sore becomes second nature. So if you’re feeling the soreness of starting something new—whether it’s learning a skill, building a team, or stepping into a new role—don’t shy away from it. That’s the sign you’re getting stronger. Keep going. (And it’s okay to hobble over to the cold plunge and sauna recovery room along the way)