I feel like (2) is usually more appropriate than (1) [...] It usually makes sense to make the thing easier than to improve your ability to push past it.
I agree with this as a long-term strategy for dealing with repetitive problems. And I share the suspicion that “tough” people often have it easier (which may or may not be a result of their previous actions).
But sometimes life throws an unexpected thing on you, and then you roll for “toughness” or fail. (Though maybe you can also prepare for the unexpected by practicing many different things, thereby increasing the chance that some skill you have will be relevant for the new situation.)
I agree with this as a long-term strategy for dealing with repetitive problems. And I share the suspicion that “tough” people often have it easier (which may or may not be a result of their previous actions).
But sometimes life throws an unexpected thing on you, and then you roll for “toughness” or fail. (Though maybe you can also prepare for the unexpected by practicing many different things, thereby increasing the chance that some skill you have will be relevant for the new situation.)