The process of transformation can be tough and even painful. But a lot of the pain we feel isn’t necessary — it comes from doubt. That’s where the struggle lies.
So, what can you do? Find certainty. Focus on one spiritual principle that feels absolutely true to you. Once that certainty is established, the ups and downs of life become easier to handle. Sure, there will still be moments of pain, but they won’t feel unbearable because you’ll trust the path you’re on. Doubt, on the other hand, makes pain overwhelming. It paralyses you, making it hard to move forward.
If you’re certain about what you believe, every action you take will be filled with confidence. Pain mixed with doubt is what really hurts. But pain mixed with certainty in which you know exactly what you are doing? That becomes meaningful — it’s part of your growth and even feels rewarding in its own way.
The Two Schools of Life
There are two big schools of learning in life: the school of pain and the school of pleasure; at its higher levels — happiness or even ecstasy. Most of us start in the school of pain. We only grow when life gets so uncomfortable that we can’t take it anymore. That’s the fire that pushes us forward.
Think about it. Why don’t we grow when things are good? Not only in spirituality. Because most of us are motivated by discomfort, it is like waiting until the last minute to finish a university paper — it is the pressure of the deadline that gets us moving.
But here’s the thing: you don’t always have to grow through pain. There’s a point where you realise you can grow through happiness too. It’s a lightbulb moment. You notice that happiness itself can be fuel for your transformation.
Happiness as a Driving Force
Usually, we chase happiness as a reward for growth. We deal with pain, grow, and then finally relax when things feel good. But what if happiness wasn’t just the goal? What if it was the fuel itself that drives you forward?
When you lean into this idea, something amazing happens. You realize that the happiness you feel isn’t just a break from pain — it is something sacred. It’s God, or the divine spark, showing up in your heart. And when you see it that way, you feel inspired to nurture it. You keep your inner “house” tidy so that happiness can stay with you.
This shift changes everything. It leads you toward the ultimate goal — being with God, or whatever you see as the divine. As this realization grows, so does your happiness. It becomes your fuel, not just your destination.
The Key to Lasting Transformation
This approach only works when your desire for growth is genuine. If you’re just trying to avoid pain and chase comfort, you’ll stay stuck in the cycle of adversity. True transformation needs real aspiration.
But once you tune into happiness as a source of fuel and align yourself with a higher purpose, life changes. You’ll experience more joy because you’ve found the key to moving forward — connection with the divine. And as you lean into that, happiness will keep flowing your way, guiding you closer to your ultimate goal.
This article was transcribed and edited by Tony from the following video: