Hello my friend,

Why are so many of us unhappy? Why are we all coping with stress instead being free from it? Why do we all need a steady stream of products, substances, and experiences to keep the bad feelings away? When we understand the answer to these questions, the solutions become apparent.

If we really look at our society, happiness is the exception. How could we not be unhappy? Who among us was raised to prioritize happiness?

The problem in the world is that a lot of unhappy people are raising unhappy children who are taught that success is more important than happiness. 

This isn’t a judgment. Unhappiness is not a failure. It’s a consequence. I don’t mean unhappy as in alcoholic or abusive. I mean unhappy as in near-constant stress, worry, pressure, fear, or sadness. Where all the good times are just a survival tactic and coping mechanism to get through the bad times.

We may try to hide our stress, worry and pressure from the kids, but they sense it. They feel it. And they adopt it. It’s an endless cycle.

So the real question is, can we raise successful AND happy kids? I know we can. But how? And how can we reclaim our true nature of happiness?

We redefine what success means and add a class to our curriculum of life: happiness.

Case and point, Elon Musk. Even with 750 billion dollars, he says his “mind is a storm” and “I don’t think most people would want to be me. They may think they’d want to be me but they don’t know, they don’t understand.” He’s described his work life as very hard and that it hurts his “brain and heart.”

Musk’s father said he was not proud of his son and that Elon is “not as happy as he’d like to be” because he “feels like he’s behind schedule” with his companies.

Breaking this cycle of misery starts within each of us. We can do it for ourselves, our children, and all future generations. And there is no more fulfilling or worthwhile endeavor that we can embark upon. That is why we’re all here — both those of us reading this newsletter and everyone alive on this planet.

Wishing you the most wonderful time of reflection, renewal, and reconnection to yourself, your loved ones, and the Universe. Have a wonderful New Year and may 2026 be your happiest year yet.

Much love,

Todd