The Key to Happiness

In this heartfelt essay, Mark explores the universal resistance to hard tasks and shares the secret to overcoming it: embracing challenges willingly. Reflecting on experiences with clients and his daughter, Mark explains how dropping resistance and saying "yes" to responsibilities can lead to immediate happiness and long-term growth. He invites readers to share their experiences and consider joining his November plant medicine retreat for deeper self-discovery.

Photo by Maria Cortes on Unsplash

The Resistance to Hard Things

Good day to you!

Yesterday, I had a powerful session with a college student who struggles with procrastination. In him, I noticed the same resistance I sometimes see in my 14-year-old daughter. It's a feeling we all know too well: aversion to doing hard things. It's not just them—it's all of us. Most of us naturally resist and can even get fussy when facing our daily challenges.

The Power of Saying Yes
But I've also experienced the opposite, both with clients and myself: the simple yet profound power of saying "yes" to hard things. Accepting our responsibilities with good cheer can transform our outlook and lead to personal growth. So here's my simple recipe for happiness: do the hard stuff willingly!

Drop the Resistance
Drop the resistance and say "yes" to whatever hard thing you face today. Do it willingly, and notice how it might bring a slight but near-instant boost in happiness.

Share Your Story
When it does, please write to me and share your story. I'd love to include your experiences in our next newsletter. I'm here to listen and share your story.

An Invitation to Transformation
I want to share one last thing that may help you through a rough patch. I'm hosting a plant medicine retreat in the third week of November. It's only four short weeks away, so you must act fast. Consider joining us if you want to raise your perspective or need a creative boost. Click here to book a call to speak with me about the retreat.

Wishing you abundant health, happiness, and prosperity,

Mark