KB107- Happiness is a byproduct of progress, not a goal.

Harsh Truths
Super Harsh Truths To Help You Start 2025 with a Bang!

Welcome to Part Five of my 12-part “Super Harsh Truth Series” for this festive season!

Over the next 12 days, leading right up to New Year’s Eve, I’ll be dropping daily truth bombs to challenge your mindset, spark action, and help you gear up for an incredible 2025.

My goal?

To give you at least one game-changing insight each day that you can take into the new year, laying the groundwork for a year you’ll indeed be proud of!

Let’s dive into #5: “Happiness is a byproduct of progress, not a goal.”

#5 - Happiness is a byproduct of progress, not a goal.

Happiness isn’t something you can chase directly.

The more you obsess over trying to be happy, the more it slips through your fingers.

Why?

Because true happiness isn’t found in moments of gratification

It’s built in the grind of progress and growth.

If you’re sitting around waiting for happiness to hit you, here’s a wake-up call…

It won’t.

Happiness doesn’t come from numbing yourself with Netflix, scrolling on your phone, or buying things you don’t need.

Those things give you temporary pleasure, not lasting fulfilment.

The second they’re over, you’re left right where you started.

Empty and stuck.

Here’s the harsh reality:

Happiness isn’t a destination you arrive at when life finally “works out.”

It’s a side effect of doing hard things, overcoming challenges, and seeing yourself improve.

The people who feel the happiest aren’t the ones chasing comfort…

They’re the ones chasing growth.

Gratification is easy. Growth is hard.

And that’s why so many people are miserable.

Eating junk food, avoiding workouts, or settling for mediocrity is easy because it feels good in the moment.

But short-term comfort always leads to long-term regret.

Progress, on the other hand, is hard.

It’s uncomfortable.

It demands sacrifice.

But it’s the only path to the kind of happiness that actually lasts.

Why does progress matter so much?

• Progress proves you’re capable. Every step forward builds confidence.

• Progress gives life meaning. It reminds you that you’re growing, evolving, and not wasting your potential.

• Progress creates momentum. The more you achieve, the more inspired you become to keep going.

If you’re not happy, here’s why…

You’ve stopped growing.

You’re stuck in a loop of instant gratification instead of committing to the long game.

You’re chasing distractions instead of chasing purpose.

And every day you avoid the discomfort of progress, you’re choosing to stay miserable.

What’s the solution?

1. Set goals that scare you. Comfort is the enemy of growth. Aim high and push yourself.

2. Embrace the process. Progress isn’t always glamorous; it’s built in the daily grind.

3. Find joy in the challenge. Happiness isn’t at the finish line; it’s in the sweat, effort, and resilience it takes to get there.

Ask yourself:

• Are you chasing momentary highs or long-term fulfilment?

• What hard things are you avoiding that could transform your life?

• How much more alive would you feel if you committed to progress every day?

Here’s the truth:

Happiness is earned.

It’s not handed to you, and it’s definitely not found in shortcuts.

It’s built in the effort you put into becoming someone you’re proud of.

Stop chasing gratification. Start chasing growth.

You’ll be happier not because life got easier…

But because you got better!