Continuous hard work

Nothing worthwhile comes easily. Work, continuous work and hard work, is the only way to accomplish results that last.  Hamilton Holt

Getting to the top without hard work, will always make you feel like a failure. 

There is no short-cut to the top.  Continuous hard work has never killed anyone. 

When you eventually reach the highest possible position, you can look back and feel proud of it that you were no passenger; you earned your way to the top.  How difficult it was, will be forgotten soon.