In my recent read of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson, he talks about a common question we’ve all heard usually from someone older: “What do you want in life?”
Most people respond with surface-level desires: a fancy house, a nice car, an attractive partner, financial freedom. But Manson argues there’s a better question:
“What are you willing to struggle for?”
He believes this is a far more accurate determinant of how your life will actually play out.
For example, you might say you want to own a small business. But are you willing to work 50–60 hour weeks? Handle tedious paperwork? Pay state fees and secure the licenses required to operate?
Or maybe you say you want an amazing physique. Are you prepared for the mental discipline of planning your meals for years? The physical discomfort of pushing your muscles hard enough to stimulate growth? The consistency required when motivation fades?
There’s a lot in life we say we want. But the real question is whether we’re willing to endure the obstacles that come with it.
If you want the outcome but aren’t willing to live the lifestyle, it will likely be a disappointing ride. As Manson puts it, you can’t love the victory without enjoying the battle.
Happiness requires struggle. Real fulfillment is earned by choosing and embracing what you’re willing to struggle for.
DK.
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