Higher Men, though they must be independent, must also be realistic about the burdens passed down to them and the effort involved in casting these aside. Higher Men must also strive to fulfill their full potential, something too rare. This effort will inevitably involve failure, but this isn’t to be viewed as a reason for shame or despair. For Nietzsche, life is basically cheerful—there’s even joy to be found in serious matters. Laughter is part of embracing life, something the masses can’t do.