You may be thinking: “it’s all very well that all of these ancient philosophers and gurus want us to embrace struggle, but struggle is hard and depressing so why would I subject myself to that? Life should be about being happy and content.” However, how do you expect to be happy and content if you don’t get anything done, if you don’t fill your life with accomplishment and pride? You may happy and content binge-watching TV and eating junk for food now, but truly ask yourself: Will I be this happy and content when I’m looking back on this life if I didn’t achieve anything of value expect for getting to theend of Game of Thrones? I hope the answer is no. Additionally, embracing productive struggle doesn’t have to be depressing. In fact, if carried out correctly, it can be the opposite: life-affirming and inspirational.