The Discipline Behind a Life Well Lived

Making real money gives you access to a lot of pleasure. Top-shelf booze. Five-star resorts. Incredible food. Fast cars. Beautiful women. Comfort. Options.

I’m not here to moralize any of that. I don't drink. If you’ve seen my wife, you already know what I like. And yeah, I enjoy driving fast cars.

But here’s the practical truth.

Pleasure is supposed to be the garnish.

Not the meal.

It’s the cherry on top, not the sundae.

The sprinkles, not the cake.

The moment pleasure starts driving your life, things start breaking. History is full of examples.
Howard Hughes had intelligence, money, and momentum most people will never touch. Pleasure, comfort, and isolation shrank his world until he couldn’t steward what he built.

Johnny Manziel had talent that should’ve given him a long career. Fame, parties, and indulgence turned greatness into “what might have been.”

Elvis became a global icon. Excess and comfort cut short what could have been an even greater legacy.
Same story. Different arenas.

Pleasure isn’t evil.

It’s just a terrible boss.

So yeah, I enjoy nice things. I’m not trying to live like a monk. But pleasure doesn’t get to run my life. I’m not chasing quick dopamine hits or momentary escape.

I’m after something better.

I’m after becoming who I’m capable of becoming.

How about you?