Uncomfortability
I would argue it's more of a matter of the choice than the growth that defines you in your uncomfortableness. Do you chose to be defeated or take the opportunity to grow? Do you recognize the growth in your struggle? It's the proverbial fork in the road. The hard way will always strengthen you.. and the reality is you are going to need this strength down the way as you build your platform. It is your ability to manage your uncomfortableness that shortens your path to success. The long way is to endure the pain and take the beating and eventually it will quit hurting as you become numb to it. The alternative is to address what is making you uncomfortable and move on. You'll be surprised how well you like the challenge when you are really good at overcoming it.