In the middle of Scottsdale, Arizona, sits a beautiful sight called Camelback Mountain, at an elevation of 1,300 feet.

From afar, it's mesmerizing. So on our 15th anniversary trip, my wife and I decided to hike it. We quickly found out the 1.2-mile hike to the summit was deceptive. Instead of being pretty, it was brutal. At one point, the "extremely difficult" trail showed its teeth. It required using both your hands and your feet, and without both, you were one wrong move from a slip and a fall.

It was at the top of that difficult stretch that I was reminded of something. The mountain does not lower itself for anyone. To reach the top, what must be done must be done. It didn't matter who you were, how fit you were, or who you were with. Climbing Camelback Mountain takes what it takes.

Today isn't really about Camelback Mountain. It's about knowing that whatever you want, the mountain isn't getting lowered for you either. So if you want something, you have to figure out two things.

Sounds simple, but it's anything but. What does it actually take to climb the mountain? And once you know what sacrifices or disciplines have to be paid to get there? You can know the mountain. You can even know exactly what it takes to reach the top. And still be unwilling to pay the price.

Now is not the time to expect the mountain to get lower, because it isn't. Now is the time to figure out what it takes and decide if you're willing to pay the price to get there.