The Thought is Worse Than the Thing

2025-07-17

Is your brain making things harder than they really are?In this episode, Joey tells the story of a teen who dreaded doing a simple merit badge… until he realized the task wasn’t hard, he just hated thinking about it. Joey breaks down why we all get stuck in what he calls “the first unpleasantness,” and how recognizing that mental trap can make hard things feel easier.Perfect for teens who avoid homework, chores, or anything that feels like a drag, this episode will teach you a simple mindset shift to move...

Is your brain making things harder than they really are?

In this episode, Joey tells the story of a teen who dreaded doing a simple merit badge… until he realized the task wasn’t hard, he just hated thinking about it. Joey breaks down why we all get stuck in what he calls “the first unpleasantness,” and how recognizing that mental trap can make hard things feel easier.

Perfect for teens who avoid homework, chores, or anything that feels like a drag, this episode will teach you a simple mindset shift to move through resistance and get stuff done.

Secret for an Awesome Life: Most times, the thought about doing the thing is worse than actually doing the thing.

My gamified mindset training app for teens, Sidekick to Hero, is available now! Go to www.sidekicktohero.com to start a two-week free trial.

Follow me on Instagram! www.instagram.com/sidekicktohero

Joey Mascio is a teen confidence coach and motivational speaker. He helps teens eliminate self-doubt, manage emotions, develop social skills, and achieve their goals. He was a middle school teacher and counselor for 7 years, a former Disneyland performer, and an experienced improv comedian. He uses his Masters in Education, Bachelors in Creative Writing, and two professional life coach certifications to teach powerful resilience tools and strategies to teens through humor and stories.

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