In this blog post, I want to share a transformative insight that has significantly impacted my life this year, both in my personal adventures and my business endeavors. This breakthrough revolves around a concept that many shy away from: suffering. Understanding and embracing the relationship between suffering and success can set the stage for achieving our goals, whether they are physical, professional, or personal.
“Your relationship with suffering sets the stage for success or failure.”
The Importance of Preparing for Suffering
As we approach the end of the year, many of us are setting ambitious goals for 2025. However, it’s crucial to spend time contemplating the challenges and suffering that often accompany these pursuits. Too often, we overlook this aspect and are unprepared when we encounter difficulties. My aim is to equip you with strategies to navigate these tough moments so you don’t find yourself giving up prematurely.
A Personal Revelation
My journey with this realization began during a hike in Colorado with my son.
Traditionally, I have not been an enthusiastic athlete; in fact, I often resist exercise, especially the training to prepare for big mountain days. However, after moving to Colorado and turning 50, I'm now able to spend more time in the mountains than ever before. But, I struggled with the physical demand of altitude and trying to keep up with my kids who are in their early twenties.
One day, I was whining about the discomfort of aerobic suffering on a particular outing. My son said, “Dad, I'm getting stronger, you are getting older. You have to break the loop of suffering in your mind if you want to realize more amazing moments with us in the mountains!”
I was stuck in a mental loop of complaining about the physical exertion. He challenged me to change my mindset if I wanted to enjoy our time in the mountains together. This moment was pivotal. It highlighted how our relationship with suffering can dictate our experiences.
We often face a mental fork in the road during challenging times: we can spiral down into negativity or choose to interrupt that cycle.
Strategies for Embracing Suffering
My son helped me build a new relationship with suffering. We developed a simple yet effective strategy encapsulated in three key words: Drop, Remind, and Connect.
- Drop: When negative thoughts arise during difficult moments, consciously drop them. Break the suffering loop. Visualize letting go of these thoughts instead of allowing them to spiral into a cycle of suffering.
- Remind: Acknowledge that discomfort is part of any challenging endeavor. Remind yourself that it’s normal to feel this way when pursuing something worthwhile. “Of course this sucks right now, this is all part of it!”
- Connect: Link your current suffering to the ultimate goal or outcome you are striving for. By connecting the grind with the summit or achievement you desire, you can reframe your experience and find momentum in the struggle.
Real-Life Application: Climbing Adventures
This mindset shift culminated in two significant climbs this year: A 6 day big wall climb of El Capitan and a 1 day intense effort to climb The Diamond Face on Long’s Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Both experiences were filled with physical challenges and moments of discomfort. During our climb up Long’s Peak, I found myself facing numerous struggles—cold mornings, cramped sleeping conditions, and physical exhaustion.
Yet, by applying our strategy, I was able to maintain focus on why I was there: to enjoy the mountains and achieve our summit goals. Even when faced with unexpected challenges, like helping fellow climbers who were struggling, which doubled our discomfort on the mountain, I learned that embracing suffering not only enhanced my experience but has opened up a new levels of achievement in every area of my life.
Conclusion
The lessons learned from these climbs have reinforced the idea that suffering is not just an obstacle but an integral part of success. By acknowledging it and preparing for it, we can elevate our experiences and outcomes.
As you set your goals for 2025, I encourage you to embrace this concept of suffering as a pathway to success.
It’s a powerful shift that can transform how you approach challenges in all areas of life.
Please share this with anyone who might benefit from it or reach out if you have questions or need support on your journey.
I hope the year ahead is your very best ever!
