What did suffering teach you that success never could?

With all the focus on success it’s easy to overlook the valuable lessons we can learn from the more difficult parts of our journey. Below, you’ll find some very interesting insights from some of the most fascinating members of the community.

Vai Trask

I learned life wasn’t about me. Life had nothing to do with me. Life has to do with my effect on the people, being that of “the greats”. I was the survivor of an attempted murder, losing a pregnancy/my second child due to the violence of a domestic partner. Read more>>

Salva Keynezhad

Suffering taught me patience and empathy in a way success never could. When things fall apart, you’re forced to slow down, sit with the discomfort, and really see what matters most. It gave me a deeper appreciation for small wins, quiet moments, and the people who stand by you when life isn’t perfect. Read more>>

Pavel Kolmogorov

Suffering taught me that progress is rarely linear and humility is a better teacher than victory laps. Success can seduce you into believing your process is airtight; suffering quietly points to the leak. Read more>>

Julia Newman

I live with a very rare chronic disorder. Though I’ve experienced symptoms on and off throughout my life, it wasn’t until early 2025 that I finally had a name for it and a treatment plan. Navigating this journey has brought unique challenges, but it has also shaped me into a tenacious and driven person. Read more>>

Kenny Ravage

My experience as a musician has taught me that the journey is rarely linear, and the people you start with aren’t always the ones who stay with you. Circumstances change, relationships evolve, and sometimes life simply takes people in different directions. I’ve learned the importance of perseverance, continuing to pursue your path with integrity and focus, even if that means moving forward on your own. Read more>>

Stacey Drake

Suffering taught me patience, humility, and gratitude in ways that success never could. When things fall apart whether it’s business challenges, personal loss, or moments of doubt, you learn what really matters. Read more>>

Paul Bivens

In 2016, after almost 4 years in the most expensive state in the country – I was dead broke, had no car but still owned on that car loan – with 70 dollars in my bank account and thousands of dollars in debt and having lived in a gym closet – I told myself I would never allow to that to happen again. Read more>>

Davi Stefond

Through the darkness, there’s always light. No matter how heavy the journey gets, there’s always something worth fighting for. Read more>>

Melissa Okabe

The moments of pain and suffering taught me how powerful and resilient I am, and that as people, we all are. Read more>>