Meaning of "Tougher Than It Is" by Cake

The lyrics of "Tougher Than It Is" by Cake reflect on the tendency of some individuals to overcomplicate their lives by obsessing over details that ultimately don't matter. The repetitive chorus emphasizes the idea that no matter how hard you try, there is no such thing as perfection and trying to control every aspect of your life will only lead to frustration and disappointment. The analogy of trying to shave a cat, only to have it bite and scratch, highlights the futility of trying to change things that are inherently uncontrollable. The song serves as a reminder to take a step back, accept things as they are, and find peace in simplicity rather than striving for an unattainable ideal.