In considering the effort required to “tread the path” and make spiritual progress, one must have a realistic sense of the work ahead and be disciplined to carry it out. The most common factor in discouragement is due to the over development of the concrete or finite mind. When you have too lofty or even unobtainable goals, then it puts a demand on the emotional nature and the physical body also suffers. In this case, it is wise to create a sense of balance by identifying realistic goals and allowing a mental equilibrium to be achieved.

During the path of integration of the personality with your Soul, there are many opportunities for letting discouragement set in, such as wanting to progress on the path faster than is wise or realistic. At this time, it is best to “make haste slowly” through developing quality in your nature (i.e. consciousness) with a sense of time.

As you are connected with the Soul in meditation on a regular basis and offsetting distractions in consciousness, you know you are progressing one step at a time in time and evolution.

One cure for discouragement is to wisely use your mind. This means maintaining a connection and awareness with the Soul as a tension, as much as you can in meditation and in your waking state.