I remember when I was trying to pursue a career in cosmetology. I studied constantly, practiced endlessly, and put in every ounce of effort I could muster. I failed the exam twice—the physical part, the written part—despite all that hard work.

Funny enough, when it came to writing my book, the opposite happened. I didn’t have to force it, I didn’t have to push through endless structured practice. I simply showed up as myself. The book was completed in under a year, and success followed almost instantly.

Even when I went to college the first time, I followed the traditional path—a degree that took four years or more. It makes you stop and think: why work so hard and take so long if you don’t have to?

Looking back, it’s ironic. Writing my book was quicker, easier, and more fulfilling than the years I spent grinding in other areas. Why? Because it aligned with my natural flow. I wasn’t forcing myself into a mold or trying to meet someone else’s standards—I was simply expressing who I am.

This made me realize: effort alone isn’t always the key to success. Alignment matters. When what you’re doing matches your strengths, your passions, and your unique voice, results can come faster, easier, and feel more effortless.

So ask yourself: are you working harder than you have to? Are there areas of your life where you’re swimming against the current, instead of flowing with it? Sometimes, the smartest move isn’t to push harder—it’s to step back, recognize where your natural strengths lie, and let them lead the way.

Success doesn’t always come to those who work the hardest—it comes to those who work in harmony with themselves.