According to Baba, what is the primary struggle in human life and how should one approach it?

The primary struggle is choosing between Shreya, the good and honorable path, and Preya, the pleasant but ultimately detrimental path. As Chapter 17 explains, a person with a dull intellect is often conquered by Preya. The true purpose of human life, or Purushartha, is to discard Preya and honor Shreya, much like a swan takes only the milk when it is mixed with water. This requires strengthening your intellect and being prepared to resist obstacles that arise on the path of Shreya. True human effort involves struggling firmly for the sake of what is good and right.