Ultra-marathoner Dean Karnazes writes, “Somewhere along the line we seem to have confused comfort with happiness.”

How accurate. So often, we seek comfort. But it’s not the same as happiness. And when we’ve made that mistake in thinking — and we layer comfort upon comfort — we ultimately find ourselves disappointed and wanting.

The comfort does not bring lasting happiness or satisfaction.

Struggle and discomfort serve a purpose. Leaning into that suffering — even deliberately challenging ourselves physically, mentally, and creatively — can lead to rewards that comfort cannot provide.