The book of Shmot, called Exodus in English, begins with the Jews going into slavery. The Torah tells us that the more they were afflicted, the more they grew and multiplied. It seems that the Egyptian plan backfired. Instead of leading to their breakdown and demise, the hard labor caused them to flourish.

The Artscroll Chumash quotes the explanation of the Ramban and elaborates. The Ramban says that Hashem had mercy on the nation for the hard work, and helped them multiply. Artscroll comments that a look at the census of men leaving Egypt reveals that the tribe of Levi, which wasn't forced to work due to their perceived priestly status, did not multiply to the degree of some of the other tribes.

While the only "hard labor" I've done in my life was a few days of moving trunks for US summer campers, starting a business sometimes feels like slave labor. For starters, I receive no pay check and have practically no income at this point. I get very little encouragement and recognition of my achievements. I have to endure a lot of criticism and demands from others.

Nevertheless, I am fueled by my own inner strength and belief that I'm on the right path and that G-d will reward me appropriately. Like the Jews in Egypt, the hard work and suffering will lead to growth and ultimate redemption, with G-d's help.