Spiritual techniques are only helpful if you make use of them. The spiritual path is not instantaneous or simple. In this lesson, Gelek Rimpoche explains that we must be diligent in our practice and frequently reflect on its methods and the nature of our own minds if we hope to overcome the effects of negative emotions. It is also important to check on the effects of your efforts by reviewing the three categories of goals: freeing oneself from suffering in this life; freeing oneself from future suffering; and helping others to do the same.