When you learn to put stress on yourself and get uncomfortable that's when you'll grow correctly. So many people hate to be uncomfortable and be disciplined that's why they fail eating is easy do hard things that's when you grow.
I have cut the OEM filters it's a solid filter when I changed over to the Amsoil spec. hydro fluid about 4 years ago. The OEM looked new when I cut them with about 50hrs on them.