It Was Not Easy, But It Was Worth It

I recently had a client who had made significant progress in a very short amount of time, but as we all so, ran into a stumbling block. This caused my client to become slightly discouraged and fearful of resorting to some old behaviors. I knew that because of my client’s previous success, this new challenge would be one that could be overcome and surpassed, so I asked a simple question about the journey thus far: “Has it been easy?”

My client replied with a simple yet powerful statement – “It was not easy, but it was worth it.” I paused to replay these words in my head, and after a moment of reflection, I told my client I could not have imagined it put any better than that. I am sharing this, with my client’s permission, because I knew these words can be an inspiration to future clients and especially to anyone who might be at a crossroads of change.

In pondering this poignant and profound statement further, I thought about significant, lasting change and the process of progress. For each individual, the pathway will differ, weaving in various directions, sometimes straight and clear, other times blocked by tragedy or temptation. But, in the end, when a successful point of reflection is reached before the next journey begins, most will look back on the trials and tribulations, the ups and downs, and realize that they have accomplished more than they originally believed that they could, knowing in ever fiber of their being that is was difficult, yet they would not have it any other way.

When you reach a point where life presents a new challenge, remember where you have been and the struggles you overcame to reach the place at which you now stand, and then resonate this wise adage – “It was not easy, but it was worth it.” – as you press forward to face the struggles ahead.