Question: How will you respond when you find yourself in the valley?

Framework: The Two Types of Happiness

"All the things which cause complaint or dread are like the taxes of life—things from which, my dear Lucilius, you should never hope for exemption or seek escape." - Seneca

This idea—that there are taxes of life that you should happily pay—resonates deeply. The reframe to view these negatives as a necessary part of my growth and progress has been tremendously helpful on my journey (and will be on yours).

In today's piece, I'd like to highlight 7 taxes of life you need to pay to live the life you want.

Question: What sacrifices are you willing to make to get the things you want?

Framework: Winston's Star

Last weekend, I ran my second marathon in 2:53:38. This was a 4-minute personal best.

During the suffering of miles 20-26 and the journey home after the race, I found myself reflecting on the key lessons from the experience. Interestingly, none of them have anything to do with running.

This piece shares 8 powerful lessons for life from running a marathon.

Question: What are the lesser goals keeping you from your real goals?

Framework: The Riptide Mentality

For the last several years, I've kept a running list of my favorite life hacks. I add and subtract from the list whenever I come across new ideas that create value in my life.

I'd like to make a tradition of sharing that list annually with all of you—in the hope that you take action on them and feel their impact on your life.

Here are the most powerful life hacks I've found to date: 50 tips, tricks, ideas, and techniques for building a healthier, wealthier life.

Question: What are the barriers within you that need to be broken?

Framework: The Beginner's Paradox

I have a few core Missions that define my life—everything is aligned around them.

Missions are life journeys with no specific end. Missions are not goals. Missions are infinite games. The power of Missions is found in the clarity they provide: If an opportunity, person, or action does not positively contribute to one of your Missions, you can say no to it.

I have clearly defined a Mission within each of three categories: Professional, Personal, and Health. Clearly defining (and embarking on) your missions is the key to unlocking new clarity, focus, and fulfillment in your life.

Question: Do you need to reframe retirement?

Framework: The Cathedral Effect

I recently had a long conversation with a young man in his mid-20s who was unhappy with his standing in life—feeling behind, lost, without a clear vision for the future. We've all been there at different times.

The conversation caused me to reflect on the honest advice I'd give to that younger, lost version of myself to help expedite his journey to the other side.

This essay shares 11 pieces of brutally honest advice to my lost younger self.