It might never be easy, but It might never be easier

How to take action even when it’s hard

By Sarah Weingarten, Founder & Productivity Coach, Happy Spaces by Sarah

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There’s a quote I come back to often. It’s by James Clear, and it goes:

“It will never be easy, but it may also never be easier than it is right now.”

I don’t know about you, but I feel that one in my bones.

Because let’s be honest: doing the things that truly matter, the things that move the needle, stretch us, bring us real pride, those things are hard.

They don’t slide into place neatly. They don’t show up with step-by-step instructions and built-in confidence. They show up with resistance, doubt, and that familiar inner voice saying, “Are you sure you can do this?”

I’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating: meaningful work — the kind that makes a difference, the kind that leaves you with a sense of deep satisfaction — is rarely easy.

There are things we can do to make it easier: We can break things down. We can plan ahead. We can find support.

But even with the best strategies, there will be moments when it’s uncomfortable.

Moments when you feel lost, stretched, uncertain, or wildly underqualified.

Moments that make you question why you started at all.

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That’s not failure. That’s growth.

Because if it were completely smooth and effortless, it wouldn’t be growth. It wouldn’t be bold or brave or brave-making.

It would be...maintenance.

And listen, there’s nothing wrong with maintenance. We need seasons of steadiness, too. But if there’s something calling to you — a project, a program, a pivot, a new beginning — you’re probably going to hit some bumps.

So when is the right time to start?

Well, there are definitely times when it makes more sense than others.

Starting a weekend MBA program while pregnant with your first child? Maybe not the easiest time.

Or maybe it is. For you.

Only you know.

But here’s what I do know: Most things don’t magically get easier later. Sometimes, the longer we wait, the heavier it feels. We get more comfortable where we are.

More used to saying, “Maybe next year.”

More afraid of starting from scratch.

And suddenly, the window that felt open just a little while ago? It starts to close.

There’s no perfect time. But right now might be the easiest time it’s ever going to be.

Before the next big life change.

Before prices go up.

Before you start telling yourself you’re past your prime (whatever that means).

So why not now?

Make a plan. Find your people. Say it out loud. Take the leap.

It might not be easy. But it might never be easier.

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Sarah Weingarten

Hi, I’m Sarah Weingarten — an Academic and Productivity Coach and the founder of Happy Spaces. I help people create systems and routines that make life feel less overwhelming and more intentional, whether we’re talking about your inbox, your calendar, or your everyday habits. As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up surrounded by noise, clutter, and a whole lot of responsibility. I learned early on how much our environment impacts how we feel—and how structure and systems can create a sense of calm amidst the chaos. Those lessons stuck with me.

Before launching Happy Spaces, I spent over a decade working in hospitality and property management with companies like Hilton and AvalonBay. I loved the fast pace and the people, but what I loved most was mentoring others and finding better ways to work. That passion eventually led me here.

Today, I work with students, leaders, and professionals — many with ADHD or executive functioning challenges — to help them get clear on what matters, make a plan, and actually follow through. I believe that productivity isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing the right things with more ease, clarity, and confidence.

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How do you know when it’s the right time to start something new?

Honestly, there’s rarely a perfect time. Waiting for “easy” usually turns into waiting forever. If something keeps nudging at you, that’s your sign to start — even if it feels uncomfortable.

Why do hard things never seem to get easier?

Because growth isn’t supposed to feel easy. The things that matter most — starting a business, going back to school, taking a leap — stretch us. You can plan, prepare, and still feel scared. That’s normal.

How can I make big goals feel less overwhelming?

Break them down. Ask for help. Build systems that support you. It might not make things effortless, but it will make them doable. And doable beats perfect every time.