Why Challenge & Failure Are Keys to Health & Happiness

The Key to Health & Happiness

It may seem counterintuitive, but challenges and failure are essential for happiness and health. Previous generations faced extreme challenges like the Great Depression and World War II. But these hard times forced them to overcome incredible adversity which inevitably taught them gratitude and to live with meaning and purpose. However, younger generations are currently lacking the purpose, health, and grit that such suffering imparts.

We’re afraid to fail. We want everything handed to us and not to fail. Failure makes us stronger, it teaches us so many great lessons. And in some ways, sickness is seen as a failure. But it’s one of the ultimate ways to truly get in touch with yourself.

– Caspar Szulc

A Challenged Immune System

Adversity challenges us to become more resilient, physically and mentally. Similarly, illnesses challenge our immune system to become more robust at fighting off infections. Much like strength training at the gym injures muscles so that they can build back stronger, illnesses like the common cold challenge our immune systems so that they can fight off even more dangerous illnesses like cancers or chronic illnesses. A comfortable life with effortless success is not the key to happiness. Struggle and difficulties, growth and learning are the true keys to happiness, even as we protect ourselves from encountering these vital experiences.

About Laj Tripp

Laj Tripp is the Media Executive and Brand Partnerships Manager for Dave Asprey, creator of Bulletproof Coffee, three-time New York Times bestselling science author, and host of the Webby-award winning podcast the Human Upgrade. 

Laj is also a Marketing, Sales, and Brand Partnerships Consultant specializing in online marketing, social media marketing, copywriting, advertising and PR relations, direct response marketing, image and brand management. 

Laj was born and raised in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he competed in diverse outdoor and extreme sports within competitive bass fishing, EnduroCross, Snowboarding, Back-Country Skiing, kite surfing, snowmobiling, hunting, and much more.