The Good Life

Where life feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside

Hey there Reader,

There are seasons when joy feels out of reach.

Not because we’re doing anything wrong, but because life is lifing—full of frustration, uncertainty, and the moments that test us, stretch us, wear us down.

It’s in those moments that I’m reminded: happiness isn’t the only measure of a meaningful life.

This week, our current Book Club read, Life in Three Dimensions, offered this:

“During hard times, when happiness seems out of reach, there are other values with which we can frame our lives. One way to think about an unfortunate event is that it might unintentionally enrich our lives, even when the ‘enriching’ experience is far from a happy one.”

Shigehiro Oishi goes on to share a powerful image from William James, who once reflected on a painting of St. Michael with his foot on the devil’s neck:

“The world is all the richer for having a devil in it, so long as we keep our foot upon his neck.”

That line stayed with me.

Because yes—psychological richness and misfortune can coexist. Not everything needs to be joyful to be valuable.

Sometimes, just holding our ground is enough.

Sometimes, we learn the most from the things we didn’t choose.

🔧 Tool to try

A journal reflection for hard or heavy seasons.

Write down a challenge you’re currently moving through. Then ask: - What has this experience taught me about myself?
- Has it shifted what I value or how I see others?
- What kind of inner strength am I learning to access here?

You’re not looking for the silver lining. You’re looking for depth.

🖋️ Something to consider

What if this season isn’t meant to feel good—
but to teach you something worth carrying forward?

📖 Club Corner

This month in the Good Life Book Club…

We’re deep into Life in Three Dimensions by Shigehiro Oishi, and the conversation continues to evolve.

This week’s theme—that meaning and misfortune can coexist—has sparked quiet reflection. The book keeps reminding us: a good life doesn’t have to be an easy one. But it can be expansive, curious, and deeply lived.

If you’ve been reading along or simply reflecting on these ideas, I’d love to know what’s resonating for you. Hit reply anytime.

Next month we’ll be reading The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins.

It’s an invitation to stop micromanaging other people’s opinions and expectations—and to get clear on what’s truly yours to carry.
👉 Click to join the Book Club here (it's free).

You’ll receive a monthly reading guide, weekly reflections, and a gentle end-of-month worksheet to help you turn insight into action. No pressure, just meaningful progress—at your own pace.