When we do what must be done to meet the challenges in life, confidence and self-mastery will expand; but when we allow fear or confusion to control us, unhappiness will result. When we work through life's challenges, anxiety will be reduced and peace of mind will increase; but when we become immobilized by self-doubt, despair will result. When we are of service to those around us, a sense of significance will develop; but when we begin to feel responsible for everyone and everything, futility will result. When we reach out to those around us, we will develop greater life-management skills and depth; but when we do so with an ulterior motive, unhappiness will result.

When we fight the battles that must be fought, greater strength and resilience will develop. but when we try to run from these battles, or avoid them at all costs, uncertainty will result.

When we reach outside of our comfort zones, our fears will diminish and our insight will increase; but when we allow our fears to overwhelm us, anxiety will result.

When we commit ourselves to the "higher road," clarity will increase and discipline will expand our abilities; but when we settle for mediocrity, a sense of insignificance will result.

When we appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, we will find an optimism that will help us manage the tough times; but when we ignore the beauty or take it for granted, apathy will result.

When we face the problems that intimidate us, our reassurance and determination will flourish; but if we merely tolerate the pain, we will become victimized by it, and hopelessness will result.

When we grow beyond where we've been, we will discover characteristics and abilities that may not have been recognized before; but if we fail to initiate this growth process, unhappiness will result.

Unfortunately, with enough time and practice, unhappiness can occur so frequently, and our perception can become so distorted, that we may actually begin to see unhappiness as normal. The "luxury" of this type of self-betrayal is something we cannot afford.