Getting to the good part is hard. It’s unfortunate, but that’s how it works. Reaching the good part, or at least the part you’re after, requires some effort.

Most things in life work this way. The good parts are hard to reach and they take time to find. If you’re a runner, the high is what you are chasing. That period of flow when your blood is pumping, your mind clears, and you feel free. That’s what you’re after. But, it doesn’t come in the first 100 yards. It can often be miles before you get there, but when you do, it’s glorious.

If you’re a writer, the words don’t always flow. The process can be slow and humbling. You can type for an hour and produce nothing but trash. But eventually, the tide shifts. It may take 500 words, it may take 1,000, but sooner or later you’ll find the momentum you sought. The energy and conscience of the work will begin to bleed through and you’ll once again be reminded of why you write.

Life is no different. The beauty of a career is in the journey that was trekked. Deep relationships require working past the surface layer and reaching the places that aren’t always comfortable. The experience of children is indescribable in totality, but the process will test your capacity for stress and patience.

It all takes work. The more important the prize, the more difficult that work will be. It’s hard getting to the good part. But, what makes it great is the effort you put in to get there. Take it in stride and do it with pride. Your work will be rewarded.