"Le chemin vers le paradis est ascendant nous devons être contents de monter bien que ce soit difficile et fatigant et contraire à l'inclination naturelle de notre chair"

Finding happiness and achieving lofty goals often means taking the tougher path. It’s about working hard and staying dedicated, even when the going gets tough and it feels like everything is against you. Now, this might sound like just another cliché, but let’s break it down.

Imagine you’re trying to climb a mountain. It’s steep, your legs are screaming, and every step feels like you’re dragging a ton of bricks. That’s how life can feel when you’re striving for something great—whether it’s a dream job, a healthier lifestyle, or a stronger relationship. It’s not easy. It’s uphill all the way, and sometimes it’s downright exhausting. But the view from the top? Totally worth it.

This idea isn’t new. Historically, people have always had to fight against the odds to achieve greatness. Take, for example, the story of Nelson Mandela. He spent 27 years in prison, enduring unimaginable hardships, fighting against apartheid in South Africa. It was a brutal, long, and painful journey. But he didn’t give up. When he was finally freed, he didn’t just stop there. He continued to work tirelessly for the rights of his people, eventually leading South Africa as its first black president. His journey was uphill all the way, but his perseverance changed the course of history.

So how can you apply this in your own life? Let’s get practical. Say you’re aiming for a promotion at work. You’ll likely have to put in extra hours, take on challenging projects, or even face rejection. It’s going to be tough. But remember, each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goal. Keep pushing, even when you’re tired. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep your spirits high. And don’t be afraid to ask for help—a climbing buddy can make a world of difference.

Now, picture this: You’re training for a marathon. You've never been a runner, and the first few weeks are brutal. Your muscles ache, and you’re out of breath just thinking about your next run. But you stick with it. You follow your training plan, listen to your body, and gradually, you start to see progress. You run a little farther, breathe a little easier. On race day, as you cross the finish line, you’re overwhelmed with a sense of accomplishment. That’s the reward of taking the uphill path.

Life isn’t meant to be a smooth, downhill coast. The real growth happens when you’re challenged, when you’re pushing against resistance. It’s in those moments that you discover your strength, your resilience, and your true potential. So, the next time you’re faced with an uphill battle, remember—it’s not just about getting to the top. It’s about who you become along the way. Embrace the climb.