How to Achieve Success Using Life's Tools

Success is achieved by being flexible and using our tools.

Flexibility

Rigidity plays its role in rallying in our wild sides. But, when left unattended, those rascals undermine our potentials. It's one thing to let loose when the time calls for it; it's another thing to let loose every minute of every hour.

Generally, it works like this. We start off as disorganized, untamed individuals. Over time we begin to realize the importance of becoming organized, having a planning and sticking to it - growing up. We may even go through a period in which we stick to our plan so much that we do ourselves harm. Our inflexibility works against us, and we miss out on opportunities.

Our plans must make room for flexibility.

Our happiness relies on our being flexible like a garden hose. Otherwise, we create rules without an end date/time and, thus, continue to follow rules way past their undeclared due date. There comes a point when the tools of life no longer serve us. Are we willing and flexible enough to let go without feeling shameful?

We are not a failure for letting something go when its time has come. There is a lifespan for everything, including our plans, schedules, rules and goals. These tools might have worked to instill in us a new habit or skill. But once that skill or habit is ingrained, is it really necessary to be so adamant as to continue when it's no longer necessary? Once we are trained, we are allowed to take the training wheels off and free flow from there - until new tools arrive.

We only need training wheels for so long, until we just don't need them anymore. We are no less of a person by removing the training wheels. In fact we are often seen as having grown up!

Wow! We are able to joyously boast, "I've achieved my goal, and I no longer need to restrict myself in this manner. I am thoroughly trained!"

We must learn to use our tools until the point at which we recognize their limitations.Then we are required to discard those tools and move on.

That's not to say we will never use tools again. In order to climb to new peaks, we will always require new tools. But once one is worn out, let's not allow our egos to stubbornly hold on to these limitations. Let's relinquish these limitations. Let's ride the bike without the training wheels for a while.

The Tools

Eventually, we will need to get a new bike. Our bodies will grow, and so we will need to get a larger bike. Eventually we may decide that the bike is not the best mode of transportation or form of exercise. Instead, we may decide that it's better to roller blade. Our feet have an appetite for the ground.

So we strap on a new pair of roller blades. Depending upon our past experiences, we may not be equipped with the proper knowledge to successfully hit the ground rolling. We may need secondary tools, such as a teacher or a smooth surface.

So, we acquire a roller rink and a professional to guide us until we feel safe to ride the wall alone. We ride the wall and the smooth floor until we decide the wall is not the center, and we want to see what's in the middle. Soon we realize that the center of the rink is just as boring as the rink by the wall. What does the street hold for us?

We acquire different tools throughout our life. Each tool arrives newly packaged. We move through a process of unwrapping, using and discarding, and then we enter a period without use for tools or manuals.

Each aspect of the process enables us to explore different avenues life. Without these tools we would not be able to get where we're going. The wonderful part about this is that we have all the tools we will ever need right now.

We may not recognize the tools for what they are. We may be carrying around several worn out pieces, or we may have failed to pick up the shiny new tools. We may have perfect tools in our box that we simply neglect. Of course, they are growing cobwebs and deteriorating from disuse, but that doesn't mean we can't dust them off and use them.

Once those tools become well worn, we mustn't worry about the acquisition of new tools. Instead, we must only be concerned with respectfully laying aside what no longer works for us.

It's important to pay respect to what has served us. Without those tools, we would not be where we are today. Let's be thankful for what we've been given and then lay it aside.

New tools will be given to us. Let's not be afraid to pick them up and use them. They are ours to use. We are entitled to use whatever comes our way, given that we recognize it's for us and no one else. And don't try and steal someone else's tools. Simply be patient. Ours will arrive.

Being overzealous in our adventures will only cause us stress. We can't move forward without our tools and we can't move forward with someone else's tools. We can't climb Mount Everest with our friend's roller blades, we are going to need very specific gear. And don't think we can use our friend's scuba gear to camp in the desert.

The time between is a reprieve - a tool in itself. While there may be no form associated with these times, realize that it is just as much a tool as anything else.

Sometimes we just need a break. There's no point in avoiding that. Let's no go out searching for our tools, ogling other people's tools and wishing for our own - as if they weren't on their way. Take the lull as a gift. It's a time for us to rest up. How can we use our new tools if we spend all our energy in these fruitless ways?

Let's restore ourselves to high levels of energy. Refresh ourselves for the road ahead. We are on an adventure, and every adventure requires energy. Let's not waste ours. Let's be patient and rest in the peaceful serenity of this period. Let's recognize its use.

Once our tools have arrived, let's be appreciative. We can never be too appreciative! Appreciation is a prayer for success and happiness.

Let's love what we've been give with our whole mind, body and spirit. Then, let's take up our new tools and set out to explore the new world. We've just been given the keys - let's unlock the door!

It's ours for the taking if we would only take it.

That is, if we haven't been off stealing someone else's tools and going down their path. But, if that is the case, our tools will be waiting for us when we get back. Or new tools for a new path will arrive.

Whatever the case may be, the quicker we give back what doesn't belong to us and recognize what does, we can be on your way, galavanting in the direction of brand new experiences.

Adventures await us in all directions. Let's figure out whether we've been using the wrong tools, neglecting the tools we've been given, or if we failed to get rid the old.

Let's take a personal inventory. What's going on? Which tools are being used? Are they the right tools? How do they feel? Are we ready for new tools? Or, is this a period of grace?

These are questions that need to be answered honestly.

Let's let go of any thoughts that tell us to do something that we don't feel is right. Let's let go of the opinions of others. Let's call on our higher powers to guide and direct us in the direction of our dreams. We have all the tools we will ever need right here, right now, so long as we are flexible enough to recognize when to stop, let go and move on.

It's alright to stop a while and rest, if that's what we feel you need to do. The world will go on. We are allowed to give Atlas the world back and resume our unique roles as OURSELVES.

Let's be successful. Let's be flexible. Let's use our tools.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paula_D_Jones

Read More

Two Simple Strategies to Improve Your Life Success

In my last article I discussed the absolute necessity of taking personal responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and above all your actions. Your actions bring your results. All the knowledge in the world cannot help you if you do not act upon it. In this article I will discuss two simple easy things to do, which if done, will improve your life guarantee. They are not time consuming or difficult. They cost nothing and can be instantly implemented into your life.

RESPONSIBILITY EXERCISE:

Taking personal responsibility is one thing. Remembering to take it for yourself in the heat of everyday interactions is quite something else. Here is what you can do. Take a piece of (A4) paper and in thick black magic marker write "I AM RESPONSIBLE" on it and hang it up on your bedroom wall next to the door. Every morning when you get up and even before you go to the bathroom you will see "I AM RESPONSIBLE." The second half of the exercise is simply to think "for my actions". Now, looking at "I AM RESPONSIBLE" is passive. You simply look at the words and let them register in your mind. Thinking "for my actions" is active. Every time you go into your bedroom look at your piece of paper on the wall. See the words and think "for my actions." Think "for my actions." Think "for my actions."

After about two weeks you will see real results. Even when you are in an uncomfortable situation, dealing with an uncomfortable person, you become aware of "for my actions." The first time I experienced this awareness was quite invigorating. I was aware of being in the situation but I was also detached from it. It was a blessed feeling of freedom. Knowing that I am responsible for my actions freed me from having to react to the situation and made me able to respond to it. Needless to say, what could have become a problem resolved itself before it became a problem.

Before I leave this theme, however, there is one point I wish to make perfectly clear. There came a point in our discussion where this gentleman made a rather derogatory remark. Actually, it was a roundabout insult. My first feeling was to defend myself or attack his position. This was my first feeling, but, then came this moment of "blessed freedom" as I saw that reacting to his comment would bring an end to our discussion. I saw that acting out my anger to his comment was not necessary and that acting peacefully actually gave me the possibility to feel at peace. I write this to let you know that this is not some kind of magic, but, rather a way to freedom. As this idea of "being responsible for my actions" has taken root in me I find it easier to control myself and therefore the situations in which I find myself. Try it. Practice it.

THE SMILE EXERCISE:

After getting up and reminding yourself that you are responsible for your actions for that day there is a one-minute exercise, that, if indulged in, will truly change the character of your life.

First: be alone. If you live in a family situation, or with other people, find a place where you can be alone, even if you must lock yourself in the bathroom for one minute. Now that you are alone: smile. That's it. Smile. You don't have to think anything, say anything, or do anything.

Just Smile. Personally, I explored the feelings of my face muscles and the effect of smiling on my eye muscles. Just smile, for one minute without stopping. At first, one minute is a long time, but, in a very short time it is nothing. This exercise is such fun you will want to do it more times throughout the day. It is important that you are alone. You must smile by and for yourself. My favorite place is when I am alone in the car stopped at a red light. It brings a very relaxed feeling and stress seems to evaporate as the mist does when the morning sun warms the earth.I know that this sounds too simple to have any impact, but I can attest to the fact that it has had a profound effect on my life. Try it. It only costs you one minute a day.

Life is an inner experience. The world is not as it is. The world is as you think it is. These two simple and easy exercises are like a doorway to opening your inner world. May peace be with you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Dobkowski

Read More

The Importance of Taking Personal Responsibility

Taking personal responsibility simply means that you accept the fact that you are the cause of all that is good and all that is dysfunctional or painful in your life. It means that you can see yourself as the doer and not the victim of your circumstances. It means that you stop blaming others or events for your situation and firmly take your life in your own hands. James Allen, in his classic book "As a Man Thinketh" put it this way: "A man only begins to be a man when he ceases to whine and revile and commences to search for the hidden justice which regulates his life, and as he adapts his mind to that regulating factor he ceases to accuse others as the cause of his condition and builds himself up on strong and noble thoughts".

There is also a very powerful psychological principle at work when you take total responsibility for your circumstances. It is simply this: when you blame others or outer conditions for your situation, you give away your personal power. When your job is to blame for your poverty or your spouse is to blame for your unhappiness, you have no power to change the situation. They are making you poor or unhappy. They are controlling you. However, when you take the responsibility to say "I made this situation by myself. If I don't like it I can make a different situation", you have just taken the power back into your own hands. If you are responsible for being poor, you have the power to change it. If you are responsible for being in a bad relationship, you may work on it or, if need be, end it and find a new one. You have stopped living in the problem and have started living in the solution. By taking responsibility for yourself and only yourself, you are taking the power away from people and things to control you. You are now the master and not the slave of your life. The doer and not the victim of your circumstances. As Napoleon Bonaparte is quoted as saying "I don't wait for circumstances to happen, I make them happen". Napoleon was a doer.

Now, in order for you to make this work for you, it is essential for you to understand one thing, which is: you are only responsible for yourself and no one else. It is not enough to tell your boss "I am responsible for me so change my working conditions". Or with your spouse "I am responsible for this problem, but you are responsible for that problem". This only has the effect of taking power to yourself and giving it away again. It is push and pull at the same time. Taking personal responsibility means that you are willing to change your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Remember, your job is not to reform anyone else. Your job is to take your life into your own hands and be your own master. This is an inner game. When you find yourself blaming someone or something for your misfortunes, STOP, go back and see what you did or did not do to have created the situation that you are in. You may not be able to control a situation but, you can control how you respond to it.

Any self-improvement program starts in the mind. It starts with a thought. It starts with you deciding to change your consciousness and to start thinking, feeling and acting differently. As James Allen said "As you think so you are. As you continue to think so you remain". Remember, you are the only thinker in your head. Make the best of your thoughts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Dobkowski

Read More

The Law of Success

Lesson Six in Napoleon Hill's book The Law of Success is entitled Enthusiasm. Hill writes, "Enthusiasm is a state of mind that inspires and arouses one to put action into the task at hand. It does more than this-it is contagious, and virtually affects not only the enthusiast, but all with whom he comes in contact."

Enthusiasm is vital to successful leadership, sales, writing, and public speaking. Words are just letters or sounds unless colored with the feeling of enthusiasm. If you are a writer or speaker, expressing yourself with burning enthusiasm from your heart and a deep belief in your message affects and impresses others favorably.

Enthusiasm is developed when you are doing the type of work in which you like best. Enthusiasm energizes you making work you love seem effortless. You often do not need as much sleep and tend to be more productive when enthusiasm is a part of your daily work life.

As you strive to obtain your definite chief aim as discussed in lesson one, the enthusiasm in your heart helps obstacles fall away giving you more power and assisting you in reaching your goals more quickly.

Seek environments where others of enthusiasm and optimism are present.

In a farming analogy, your suggestion to someone is like planting a seed, and enthusiasm is like fertilizer that assists the seed to grow.

Knowledge alone does not lead to success. You must be a person of action. Enthusiasm can urge you to put knowledge into action.

Enthusiasm creates within you a higher level of vibration or energy. This stronger vibration is felt in the minds of those around you. If your thoughts, words and actions all harmonize, you will be able to influence others especially when mixed with enthusiasm.

If you do not already have enthusiasm in your life, Hill suggests you study all the 16 lessons of success as well as write out your definite chief aim in life. Combine your chief aim with a written plan for its obtainment. Each night before bed, read your aim and visualize with your imagination yourself in full realization and possession of your desire. This reading may also be done in a prayer. Believe and have faith in your ability to achieve your goal. He also suggests that as you read aloud your definite chief aim, do so with all the enthusiasm you can muster emphasizing each word. Continue this practice until you have made your definite aim a reality.

Enthusiasm is one of the 16 ingredients of success that Napoleon Hill presents in his book The Law of Success.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Shultz

Read More

Setting Goals - 6 Point Plan

Setting goals is much more than simply compiling a 'to do' list. Whether for personal or business reasons the method for achieving your goals, if followed correctly, is extremely effective.

It all starts with a dream

A goal is about fulfilling a dream. Using our wonderful human imagination we can envisage what we want as opposed to what we have. It might be a new home, a better car, giving someone you care for the option of not working, being fitter or slimmer or improving a relationship.

It is important not to restrict the scope of your dreams. If you can imagine it, you can achieve it!

Clarity is everything

It isn't enough to simply think in terms of the new home or the new car. You must sit down and write out not just the things you desire but a very detailed description of them. For example if a smart new car is your goal then describe it in terms of make, model, external color, internal trim, engine type and size and any extras or modifications.

It is also vital that you set a definite date for achieving your goals and the reason for this brings us to the most interesting aspect of setting goals.

The power of the subconscious

You have a conscious mind, a subconscious mind and an unconscious mind. We are concerned today with the extraordinary relationship between the conscious and subconscious mind.

Have you ever found yourself trying to remember the name of someone famous or some other fact that you know you should be able to bring to the front of your mind instantly? Of course you have. Frustrated you dismiss the whole exercise and yet some time later the answer springs into your consciousness and you announce it to the world triumphantly.

What has happened is that your subconscious mind has been sifting through the billions of pieces of information that it has stored, found the relevant facts and pushed them into your consciousness

Tapping into the power of the subconscious mind

What if you programmed your subconscious mind with your goals in such a way that your brain accepts them as not merely vague desires but as a set of instructions to act upon within your time frame. In other words your subconscious will begin to provide your conscious brain with the information you need to actually achieve your goals.

This programming is accomplished by reading your goals every day. Do you now appreciate why they must be written and in great detail.

Self image

Your self image must not get in the way of setting goals. Your self image is your version of you and it starts to form from the day you enter this world. Your surroundings and the people you meet every day are instrumental in forming the person that you believe yourself to be.

If enough people tell you often that you can't sing then you begin to accept it as a fact even though there may be no reason why you couldn't sing. Not being able to sing becomes part of your self image. Unfortunately these self fulfilling prophecies can become so extensive that they can have a very negative effect on many aspects of you life.

You can change your self image

There is every chance that you believe that you cannot achieve many or all of your goals because your self image is telling you that they are simply not achievable by someone like you. The process that I have described above is not just programming for success but re-programming your subconscious to generate a new self image.

In truth there is nothing that the average person cannot achieve. Setting goals gives your life focus and meaning, achieving them will give a massive boost to your confidence and happiness.

Don't let anyone steal your dreams.

Lawrence Stainbank

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lawrence_Stainbank

Read More

What Happens When You Fail To Achieve Your Goals?

What happens when you fail to achieve your goals? It could be that:

• You start avoiding setting big goals because you don't want to fail. You start talking of being practical and the need to set achievable goals.


• You get upset and demotivated. You start losing faith in yourself. You start feeling that you are a failure.


• You switch over to "why" mode and analyze what went wrong? What could have been done to avoid failure? What changes you must make in your planning or action process, so that your goals remain meaningful and challenging AND you really achieve them!

Which of the above options do you choose? Of course, there is nothing wrong in failing. It happens with everyone some time or the other; but you cannot start on this premise. If you start with this thinking, that amounts to "planning to fail".

So the focus has to remain to succeed - success with a feeling of achievement, success that is not an ordinary one! Therefore, if you understand your weaknesses, there can always be some concrete plan to pull you forward.

Big targets are always going to be scary. It is natural to feel uneasy and apprehensive about them. They certainly go beyond the obvious or what you can achieve with what you already know and do. Big stretch targets force you to think out of the box. Obviously, extraordinary results cannot be achieved with ordinary actions.

It goes without saying that you have to move outside of your comfort zone while chasing big targets. So, in fact, it is the fear of unknown over there that scares you!

For some people, the failure of falling short of a big target means embarrassment, frustration, loss of face, loss of respect, disappointment and reinforcement of an already low self-esteem. Big enough reasons to avoid those big targets - big enough reasons to look for "achievable targets" and to justify why targets should be "achievable".

However, safe and achievable targets don't stretch you and as such, you end up achieving much less than what you can! You don't feel the need to think smarter, or choose more wisely or act more deliberately. Taking the easy route, you neither explore new approaches nor look beyond your current knowledge. Definitely not enough to have that adventurous feeling of fulfillment!

It is also true however, that unrealistically high targets without backing of real action plans can never motivate you to perform. Striking a fine balance between the stark reality of the present and aligning your thoughts, choices and actions towards a BIG destination in the future, is the key.

Get motivation from the distance you have traveled to inspire yourself to bridge the gap you have fallen short of. Motivation to achieve and will to succeed are the pre-requisites in this journey. The real success will come through creative thinking, meticulous planning and real hard work. So think BIG, plan BIG, achieve BIG for BIGGER accomplishments and supreme feeling of satisfaction.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ashok_Grover

Read More

The Power Behind Setting Goals

We all have dreams and aspirations. Setting goals is a way to achieve something that most people dream about. What does that mean? To achieve great things, you must have a burning desire to succeed. Thomas Edison once said, "When a person desires something so deeply that he would stake his future on a turn of the wheel, he's a sure bet to win." The goal has to be big enough to make you persist when obstacles come. Michael Jordan is a great example of persistence. Nothing could stop him from being all that he could be. Sure, the skeptics said he would not succeed. Sure he ran into some speed bumps, but his work hard made him who he is today. What made his persistence so strong was his desire. One of his goals was to win championships. His desire was so big that it would not let him quit. To be a champ, you have to believe in what you do. That's the power behind setting goals and having success.

Setting Goals for Better Health

Let's say you want to get healthy and fit. You are going to have some highs and lows. Consistency is the key to your success. You have to decide in your mind that you want it, and then take action. That's what I did. I followed a strict nutrition and fitness plan. Was it easy? No, but the results we're fantastic. You have to do something different to get something different. The more you think about something, the more it gets deeper in your mind. Many times we say, "I think I can lose weight" as opposed to "I will lose 15 pounds by January 31st." A realistic goal with a deadline brings on a whole new meaning. It gives you a sense of purpose and a greater chance for success. Add to that writing down the goal, and you are one step closer!

Questions to think about:

• Why do you want to lose weight?
• Why do you want to have healthier looking skin?
• Why do you want to live longer?
• Why do you want to get ripped?
• Do you have that burning desire to get the body you want?

I can teach you how to get the results but it's up to you get the results.

6 Ways to Get Healthy and Fit:

• Drink more water (at least 8 glasses).
• Eat more fruits and veggies.
• Eat whole grains.
• Replace one meal each day with a healthy meal shake.
• Get more sleep.
• Get more exercise.

Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right! Just take the first step.

How to Succeed with Personal Goal Setting:

• Write down a list of personal goals on paper.
• Make me your coach.
• Set a goal each day.
• be persistent.
• be consistent.
• Stick to the plan.

Why set goals?

Goal setting gives you a sense of accomplishment. When you set goals that are realistic, you have a chance to cross the finish line with both arms up.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_E_Davis

Read More

How to Transform Your Dreams Into Accomplishments

Who among us wouldn't love to be a better person and live a more fulfilling life? Maybe you wish you were richer, thinner, healthier, or more successful. Perhaps you'd like a more fulfilling love life or a fuller social calendar. Make sure you're not making the mistake so many other people make and simply waiting for those things to happen on their own. It's only by taking action that you'll ultimately get where you want to be.

This is the case regardless of what you're hoping to achieve in your life. After all, even people who manage to beat the odds and win the lottery had to facilitate their stroke of good luck by deciding to buy a ticket! Let's take a look at how you can take your dreams and transform them into real circumstances through actions and purposeful planning.

Clarify your goals and decide on a time frame.

Everyone knows what it's like to have deadlines and quotas that need to be met at work... but have you ever taken the time to think about why those benchmarks are in place? It's because they're the only way to really get things done and make progress. Before you can reach your goals, you need to first figure out what they really are. Next you need to establish a time frame and make a plan for actually reaching those goals. Think about a part of your life that you really wish was different or better, whether that's your weight or the direction your career is taking. Set a specific goal you'd like to reach and attach a deadline to it. Ask those closest to you to help hold you accountable when it comes to following through.

Make sure your expectations are realistic.

Making progress is part of a process that is going to take some real time, so don't expect to be able to change everything overnight. Make sure the goals and deadlines you're setting are actually realistic. Otherwise, you'll quickly get discouraged and reach a point where you're ready to throw in the towel. Consider asking a professional consultant to help you set reachable goals if you're not sure you can do it on your own. When it comes to long-term plans, break the process up into smaller milestones. This not only helps show you you're making progress, but it helps keep you from drifting off course as well.

Knowledge is helpful... but it's not everything.

Some people feel that improving their quality of life automatically means going out and getting another degree or hitting the books and studying something new. While there's never anything wrong with acquiring more knowledge or more credentials, it's important to realize that they're not a means to an end by themselves. You need to be able to apply what you learn in a way that facilitates real change, so keep this in mind when formulating your plans.

As you can see, making real progress in life really is all about taking action and purposefully moving ahead toward one's goals. Look for ways you can apply this philosophy today and experience the difference it makes for yourself!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Johnny_J._Flewellen

Read More

What Is Vision Mapping?

In order to live a life full of purpose and to live a life on purpose, vision mapping is an effective way to stay focused. Without a vision, there is no direction on which to live life. Without vision, there is no purpose.

Where there is no vision, the people perish - Proverbs 29:18

So when it comes to having a vision. A map is needed in order to accomplish the vision. This is called vision mapping. I learned the concept of vision mapping from Steven K. Scott's book, The Richest Man Who Ever Lived. It gives a breakdown of vision mapping and it gives steps on how to write out a vision map.

Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. - Habakkuk 2:2-3

What is vision mapping?

Vision mapping is writing a clear and specific vision with a detailed road map to achieving the vision. It is very similar to goal setting. This can help people accomplish their dreams and actually develop a plan on how to accomplish those dreams.

How to do vision mapping

First step: Write a clear and precise description of the vision

In vision mapping, it is important to write the vision very clearly. Make it as descriptive as possible. You can describe what you are wearing in this vision. The time and day. Who is with you in this vision. What is your location when this vision is being fulfilled? Basically, make it as vivid as possible. This is when you need to become a kid again and use your imagination. Here is an example:

I, Janarian Donte' Foster, am sitting in my apartment in Greensboro, NC. I am sitting in the living room on the sofa. I can feel the breeze hitting my face from the central air conditioning. I can hear the dogs outside barking. The date is now September 13, 2013. It is 3:00 PM and it is a sunny day outside. The TV is on and I can hear ESPN SportsCenter playing on TV. I have my laptop in my lap and I am logging into Expedia.com and I have just processed my order for two airline tickets to fly to Orlando, FL on October 24, 2013. I am now smiling and rejoicing. I can't believe how easy it was to book a flight to Orlando. I can't believe how easy it was. This is how I did it:

So you just have to be very detailed about your vision and make it real!

Second step: Do goal setting for the vision

In this step in vision mapping, you need to make a list of the goals that you need to meet in order to achieve your dream.

Third step: Turn the goals into steps

Take the goals you have set and break it down into steps that are going to be needed to achieve the goals.

Fourth step: Turn the steps into tasks

Separate the steps into daily tasks that are needed to complete the steps.

Fifth step: Set deadlines

In vision mapping, you need to keep yourself accountable. You need to set a deadline or completion date on each step and task that is needed in order to achieve your goals. This is so you can do things one step at a time until everything is achieved.

Final Thoughts

This exercise can be helpful to all of you dreamers out there. This will help you to turn your dream into a reality. This will also show you that you don't have to be sleep to dream. Stay focused and go after your dreams!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janarian_Foster

Read More

Why It Is Important To Set Your Goals

One of the most fundamental yet vital personal development activities is goal setting. You may be surprised at how big a difference goals can make in your endeavors. Let me discuss this topic with you and hopefully you will see why that is so.

Now the first thing I want to harp on is that goals provide you with a sense of direction. Without goals, you could end up lost in your journey. In fact, without goals, your journey could be really pointless. Let me give you an illustration. Think of two opposing soccer teams who are playing soccer on a field without goal posts. What would the motive of the game be if there are no goal posts? Now when you put two sets of goal posts on to the field, you give each of the teams a purpose, which is to score as many goals as they can to win the game. Basically, what I am saying is this. If you have no goals, you cannot be a winner, and therefore, that makes you a loser. Doing other personal development activities would hence be futile without an end destination.

Besides giving you an end destination, goals can also help guide you along the way. Let me give you another illustration. Let's say you went trekking, and you lost your way. You know where you want to go, but you need a compass to bring you to your final destination. What can we learn from this illustration? It is important to have a long term goal, but it is also just as important to have short term goals, or what I like to call milestones. If you break down your long term goal into milestones, achieving that long term goal will not seem like such a daunting task, and it will help you with your other personal development activities as well.

Besides having a long term goal and breaking that up into smaller milestones, I also suggest that you write your goals down and put them in a place where you will always be able to see them. When you write your goals down, you show that you are committed to attaining them, and whenever you find that you're lost, you can always look back at them to get some motivation. Besides, committing to them to memory isn't very effective because as humans, we do forget.

I hope you have gained a better understanding about goal setting and I hope you will use it in tandem with your other personal development activities.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Simpson

Read More

Ten Ways to Boost Your Self-Esteem

1. Talk to someone who listens to you. It could be your mother or father, or your best friend. It could be a teacher or work colleague. But sometimes it's important to get your feelings out in the open. Find someone you can trust that will listen to what you have to say. Find a person who can provide feedback in a non-judgmental way.

2. Make a list of the things you like about yourself. List your accomplishments. Then make a list of the things you would like to accomplish.

3. Start working towards your goals today. Make a list that you will update in 3 months, and in 6 months, and that you will look back and read and revise on a yearly basis.

4. Take a break from your routine. One of the best ways to get yourself out of a rut is to take a break from your everyday routine. You will see things in a different light, and it helps to put your life in a different perspective. If you feel "stuck", this is a good way to begin again.

5. Start a Bulletin Board or Journal. This is a continuation of the ideas you have already listed. You cannot hide your light under a bushel, but instead, you should be proud of any past accomplishments and achievements. That includes your children and your past work and academic experience. Hang your diplomas and display your treasured possessions.

6. Spend some time with a child, or take a pet for a walk. Having to care for another human being, or another living creature, and just getting out of yourself and seeing things from a child's perspective can really help you to move forward. Children and animals tend to accept people for who they are, not who they want to be. It's always a good idea to keep you living "in the moment" to spend time with children. And even if you don't have a dog, you can usually find a friend or relative who would love to lend their pet to you for a short walk outside.

7. Take a good look at yourself. You don't want to be super-critical, but if you see something about yourself that you would like to improve, go for it! Put on a bright shirt, have your hair cut, get a make-over, or join a gym. Sometimes a short-term pick-me-up is a great motivator. You may want to take on a cleaning project to pull you out of the doldrums. If you have been putting off cleaning a room or a garage, make a list with bullet points. Start small, and clean up one area with large trash bags. If this looks really good, and you find things that were missing, it will motivate you to continue the cleaning spree. At that point, make a list to finish what you start. Don't make the mistake of putting things in bags and leaving them untouched for a year! Start small, and aim small. Every week, you can keep it up and you can mark off the improvements you make, by month and by season. Have a goal in mind, and you may want to start another cleaning or home-improvement project right away to keep the motivation high!

8. Volunteer to do something for someone else. Take your problems and set them aside for a while and you will lift the weight of the world off your shoulders. When you begin to look around, and see others in need, and learn to focus your talents and help others, and you will see things from a different perspective that will help you as well as others in the long run.

9. Write down something funny that happened to you. Never fall into the trap of taking yourself or life too seriously. Laughter is one way to keep things in perspective and you will feel better every time you laugh about something funny that has happened or a funny joke you may have heard.

10. Go for a Walk. Look at the world around you. Go and move and focus on things around you. Exercise and you will feel better about yourself. Set mini-goals for your exercise dates and start moving more. Keeping fit will keep you sound in both mind and body.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_L_Johnson

Read More

The Wheel of Life

One of the first steps of using the Law of Attraction is to set your goals. You must know what it is you want before the Universe can begin to manifest it for you. When teaching someone to do this, I generally start off with the questions "What do you want out of life? What are your dreams?" While these questions work with some people, with other people I get a glazed look of incomprehension, or, even worse, a look of fear.

You see, some people simple do not know what they want out of life. Either they have never tried to figure out what their dreams really are, or they have been put down so many times that they have forgotten what it means to dream. For these people, the concept of a life purpose is simply out of the question. To get at the dreams these people have, you need to provide a little more guidance and suggestion. That is where the Wheel of Life comes into play.

Dividing Life Up

The Wheel of Life is a process of dividing up one's life into a number of parts. Then, rather than trying to deal with the entirety of one's life, you can deal with just one part at a time. Stephen Covey talked about this concept in his book "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" by talking about the various roles a person fulfills.

So when I see the look of either incomprehension or fear, I immediately move towards the Wheel of Life. After calming the person down and reassuring them that we will not try to cover EVERYTHING, I then start to divide a person's life into pieces. Most Wheel of Life diagrams have either 6 or 8 pieces, depending on how you group activities. Working with the 6 piece model, you can divide your life into Physical (health and fitness), Occupational (profession and finances), Relational (family and friends), Social (organizations), Mental (learning, reading, writing, etc.), and Environmental (house, possessions, etc.). This grouping is what I use; others may do something different. The 8 piece model simply divides some of the groups differently. The key is to segment the life of the person so you can talk about one part of his life rather than the whole thing.

Purpose of the Wheel

By dividing up the life into pieces, you accomplish several key tasks. First, you show someone that their life is not one-dimensional. They have multiple pieces, and a lack of achievement in one area does not mean they are inadequate, particularly if you can point to successes in other areas. Second, you give them a focus which allows them to avoid being overwhelmed. Many people are confused when they try to evaluate their entire life, but most people can focus on one area at a time. Third, you can introduce the concept of living a balanced life. You can show them where they have made progress and where they haven't, which can provide an initial motivation for action.

Using the Wheel of Life can provide a clear starting point for action, especially for those who are just beginning their self-development. By focusing on each area of the Wheel, a person can set clear goals, which can then be manifested by the Law of Attraction.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Steely

Read More

Self Improvement Tips To Help You Succeed In Life

I have had the opportunity to coach thousands and thousands of people. However, I realized that not all of them had the right mindset to begin with. So I decided that I will give you a few free self improvement tips right here. These tips are meant to help you succeed with almost any endeavor in life, so I hope you will benefit from these.

To start off my free self improvement tips, I would like to quote a somewhat overused phrase, "if you fail to plan, you plan to fail". Now, let me be frank right here. Goals are important, and if you do not take the time to plan your goals, it is as good as planning to fail. Spend some time to think about what you want to achieve in the short term as well as the long term. Once you have thought about those, I highly recommend that you write down your goals on a piece of paper, and stick it on your study table, bed side table, or someplace obvious where you can see it clearly. Goals are there to help us move in the right direction, and by writing down your goals, you will be reminded of what you want to achieve.

This next point is just as crucial as the first. You need to be committed to work your way to achieving your goals. I believe this applies to almost anything you set your eyes to in life. If you are running a race, you cannot just sit at the starting point and hope to win the gold medal. You need to train up to the required level of fitness, and that could mean months or even years of preparation in advance. Being committed could be spending some time every day training your speed and stamina, eating right, and avoiding certain kinds of food.

As mentioned, these free self improvement tips are meant to help you succeed. However, how much you want to succeed really depends on what goals you set and how committed you are to achieving them. You obviously need to set realistic goals, but you should not set goals that can be easily achieved. I recommend you set goals that will stretch you, and commit yourself to achieving those goals, one day at a time. I hope you have benefited from these free self improvement tips and I wish you success in your endeavors.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Simpson

Read More

Why Write Goals Down?

Many people, in many places, teach how to reach goals. Among the practices taught, writing goals down is one of the most repeated instructions. There is ample evidence that written goals are attained more often than goals not written down, and this fact is all that is given to explain why to write goals down. However, very few people attempt to explain why writing goals down works, so let us investigate that aspect of attaining goals.

What Is Written Down

When you are told to write your goals down, you need to be clear on what is being asked of you. What is it that you are supposed to write down? The most common instruction is to write down the SMART properties of your goals. SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, As If Now, Relevant, and Timely.

A Specific goal is one that you clearly understand and which can be clearly explained to another; the more details you have about the goal, the more specific the goal. A Measurable goal is one that you can decide quickly and definitively whether you have attained the goal or not; while a path of progress is not required, it can be very helpful in making a goal measurable. A "As If Now" goal is one you feel you have already attained; the more you visualize the goal as being achieved, the more this "As If Now" quality is present. A Relevant goal is one congruent with your beliefs and principles. Finally, a Timely goal. is one with a deadline.

So writing a goal down means to the work at and write out, to the best of your ability, each of these five qualities of the goal. The format you use is personal; what is important is that you write them down.

Writing Involves Senses

Writing something down involves several senses, which means that several physical parts of the body are engaged. By engaging the hands, eyes, and maybe the ears, you are providing activity which can be remembered at a physical level, which improves the mental memory strength. You can take advantage of this strength through strong visualization, since an imagined event has the same impact on the nerves and muscles as a real event.

A logical, or even emotional thought, affects the memory from a single direction, the mind. When the body is involved through action, whether that action is real or imagined, the memory is affected from a second direction, which increases the probability that the goal will be retained in memory.

Writing Demands Clarity

By writing the goal down, you are forcing yourself to make the goal clear enough to put into words. By using words, you are making the concepts involved clear to you; if you want to really take advantage of this characteristic of writing, imagine that someone else, someone you do not even know, is reading and explaining your words.

Many people have a good idea, but they cannot express that idea in words. By going through the effort to get the words, you make the ambiguous aspects specific, and the unclear characteristics become known. Again, to take full advantage of this technique, have someone else read what you have written to check your clarity.

Writing is Permanent

By writing your goal down, you are making the goal a (somewhat) permanent part of your existence. You are giving a level of commitment to that goal. You have staked a claim. You may change your mind later on, but for right now you have made a commitment. This permanency makes the goal more powerful and a stronger part of your existence. That means you are more likely to give the time, energy, and effort needed to reach the goal.

For these reasons, and more, a written goal is much more likely to be achieved that a goal that is merely stated to someone else. Take advantage of this fact and make your goals more likely to be achieved, and thus you will lead a more successful life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Steely

Read More

Dealing With Adversity

Adversity simply put is a road block or detour. It can also be seen as a way to test that you are on the right track. Adversity also has a way of sapping your energy and often leads to your giving up. Why does life seem such a struggle? Isn't life meant to be easier than this?

I believe that wisdom comes from two areas. Having witnessed the experience and having lived the experience. I expect there are those who feel that wisdom is gained from reading and study. I can accept that to some extent however the emotional part does not exist in reading or study. Whats the adversity in that? Their in lies the benefit. The experiences that knock the starch out of you, we remember the most. These events often leave you feeling you have failed or you are faced with making the wrong decision. I believe it's the lessons that come from adversity that make you mentally stronger leading you to your eventual success.

I expect it's said the best way to avoid adversity is to just keep cruising and never stretch ourselves. What's the point of that? Sounds like a recipe for a life without purpose or meaning. It's a proven fact that people who live life with a purpose and stretch themselves live a longer and happier life.

There is a good reason you should push yourselves to be better than you were last year, last week or yesterday. It's for your health and your self-esteem. It's about making the world a better place because of our actions. Meaningful change in yourself impacts others such as your families and co-workers.

These reasons are why you should set out knowing there will be resistance to your plans and actions. The resistance often comes from those who fear change. It's uncomfortable for them. Why should you allow them to set the agenda. It's your life. I recommend you share your dreams and aspirations with your loved ones and business associates. If they do not know why you are doing what you do they will question your motives. The sharing of your intentions is a way of removing some of the resistance before you set out to make changes.

Adversity is your close and honest friend. That's what good friends do. Strong friendships are not the easy ones. They are strong because of a bond knowing that you will be there for each other when things get tough. Your embracing adversity says that your ready to take yourself to the next level. Success is found in those who started out knowing there will be setbacks and adversity. Successful people also know adversity and resistance makes them stronger. Join the success team and fly past those afraid to take the road less traveled.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_R_Roy

Read More

How to Use Haters As Motivation?

First, let's analyze the goals of a hater. The objectives of negative individuals are not to see you succeed. They're there to deter you from excelling at an activity. They accomplish this by always making you feel inferior and tearing down your hopes and dreams. How can you not allow these individuals to stop your growth? You have to start using them as your motivation.

Why do people have to be so negative? When people feel poorly about themselves they want to tear you down. Sometimes it doesn't necessarily have anything to do with you. They may not be having a good day or maybe they aren't where they want to be in life. Tearing you down makes them feel better about themselves and their situation. If you succeed, then this will serve as a constant reminder of their shortcomings. Therefore, tearing you down is necessary for them to feel better. Don't let them project their insecurities on you. That's their problem, not yours. So don't take it personal. Just keep trying to be the successful person you were born to be.

Why is it so important to use haters as your motivation? You are channeling their negativity into positivity. I have always loved the quote, "The moment you believe you will fail, you have already lost the battle." Negative people can only stop you from succeeding if you start to believe them. This is why believing in yourself is so important. Whenever you hear negative words from others, I want you to replace them with positive ones. When you hear someone say you can't, replace these words with I can. When someone tells you what you won't do, tell them what you will do. Constantly speaking these positive affirmations to yourself will help you accomplish any goal. Just like you can speak success into existence, you can speak failure into your life.

Next, try to prove negative individuals wrong. With every goal you reach, you are one step closer to proving them wrong. With every stride or accomplishment, it will serve as validation that you can accomplish anything you put your mind on. This will also serve as an incentive. Imagine how good it will feel to look those in the eyes who doubted you and to say I win. As the old adage goes the best revenge is to succeed.

So there you have it. The secret of how to use haters as your motivation is in your thoughts. Words are very powerful, especially the ones we allow to enter our minds. If we don't change the negative words into positive ones we are destined for failure. Let your haters motivate you. Thanks for reading.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bianca_Frazier

Read More

You Are Built For Success

Within you is a mechanism of mind that is built for success. It's the very same mechanism that bends the plant toward sunlight, leads the desert lizard to find water, propels the hawk to hunt and capture its prey, and guides the salmon upstream to its birthplace.

This mechanism is also present in Humans. Success is as natural to Humans as it is to the rest of Nature.

So why, then, do so many people fail, or worse, don't try at all?

First, let's make clear what success is not. Success is not getting the fancy car, expensive clothes, the big mansion, or the important title. This is not success.

Success is creative accomplishment. Success is any achievement in which you played a creative part in bringing it about. The cars, clothes, and titles may be the rewards of success but they are not success.

So what is failure, then?

Failure is simply a step forward that indicates an adjustment must be made. Failure is a teaching/learning opportunity. Failure tells you what needs adjusting and is part of your success mechanism. Failure is not what you are though!

In other words, if you failed at something it means that you failed at something, it does not mean that you are a failure. This distinction is extremely important and must be made clear in the mind. Too many people identify with their failures as if the failure is the makeup of their personality. Having concluded thus, it is then certain to lead to one failure after another without the benefit of learning and making adjustments toward success.

To reach your success, and to fail along the way, requires that you take action.

For example, when the child is learning to walk he will inevitably fall and 'fail' a number of times. With each fall his mind will make an adjustment to positioning and balance of the body in such a way that the next attempt (action) will show an improvement until, after enough attempts (actions) are made and information gathered from these attempts, the child is successfully walking on his own. The failures played a vitally important, necessary part of the success and are absolutely essential to it.

In fact, this is how all success happens. We 'fail' our way forward until the goal we've chosen is achieved. Therefore, your goal must be specific enough that you will know it once you reach it.

Vague goals that are not clearly defined do not give your built-in success mechanism anything definitive to strive for, and success, then, will not be achieved. In this case, you are much more likely to personally identify with 'failure' as a part of your makeup.

However, if success was never clear then failure does not truly enter the picture as it is intended to (as a learning tool). Failure, in this instance, is worn as a false belief that it is intrinsic to your being. When this is the case you will never take action. And without action, a result of mistakenly identifying with failure as a part of your makeup, then you have zero chance of ever achieving anything. Zero.

Success, true success, is a result of repeated failures and persistent action until the desired result is produced. This is actually how guided missiles work. A guided missile has a target (goal) programmed into it. It then is propelled forward (action) and as it moves toward its target (goal) it is constantly going off-course (failure) and correcting itself (adjustment) until it finally reaches its target (success).

So if we were to write a formula for success it might look something like this:

Goal + Action + Failure + Adjustment = Success

G + A + F + A = S

This is the summary formula of your success mechanism. This is how all success comes about, without exception.

Show me a person who succeeds without failure, and I will show you a person who has learned nothing and has not grown thereby and, indeed, cannot.

So as you set out to leave your mark in the world by striving towards your desired goals, know that you were built for success, that you are meant to be, to do, and to have what you desire, because if you weren't then you would not have had the desire to begin with.

The road to success is paved with failure. Persist in your actions, make your adjustments along the way, and you will inevitably own the road and reach your destination.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sariyd_Feliciano

Read More

Success - Tony Stark's Way

When it comes to wealth and success, Tony Stark has it all. Known for his duties as the Iron Man, this wealthy ingenious engineer billionaire superhero understands what it takes to run and manage a business as well as having fun! Tony Stark is known for his humorous sarcastic personality and always try to make the best out of every situation. Even when he is in danger as the Iron Man, he uses his sarcasm to keep his composure and to get into his opponent's head using taunting antics. Though Tony Stark is a fictional character, we all can learn some valuable lessons from him when it comes down to success and having fun!

In life, we all want to achieve success and live the American Dream! Nobody wants to live a miserable life struggling to make ends meet. If you want success, you have to become a winner like Tony Stark. In terms of success, being a winner is someone who never gives up and never settles for less. Whatever your heart desires in life, always remember and acknowledge that nothing is impossible to achieve when it comes to success and accomplishing your goals. 

We all should know that staying focus on our goals and taking action is definitely a must to guarantee success. However while working towards this we must also realize it is important to balance your goals and personal life. It is very important to take the necessary time to have fun as often as you can. This will help keep your mind at ease whenever you face difficult moments during your journey to success. Many people make the mistake of focusing too much time on success without taking enough time off to enjoy life. Learn to take heed of the three famous quoted words, "Live, Laugh, Love".

We must always remember to live life to the fullest, laugh with family and friends, and love ourselves unconditionally. Tony Stark is always having fun, despite being the owner of Stark Industries, a multi-billion dollar multinational corporation, and a full time superhero! Not having enough time during the day or week is a well known excuse many people like to use for not having fun. When in reality no matter how busy you are, you can always find a way to make time. Real life business owners of billion dollar corporation who barely have time for themselves still manage to find a way to have fun. 

So of course it is very important to stay focus and consistent with your goals. However there is a time to be serious and a time to joke around and have fun like Tony Stark. Balance your life by making the necessary adjustment for working towards goals and using leisure time to have a fun! Like Iron Man find your inner sense of humor and have a blast! 

Anuel St. Clair
Phone: 754-246-2924 
Email: anuel@choiceteam.net 
Website: www.choiceteam.net

Read More

With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility

Ben Parker said this best to his nephew Peter Parker, the amazing Spider-Man! Peter was accidentally fortunate to receive superhuman abilities after being bitten by a radioactive spider on a school field trip. After losing his uncle, Peter remembered Ben's famous quote and decided to put his abilities into good use by becoming a superhero. I believe everyone on this planet possess a gift, talent or skill. Many people already know what their skill sets are. While others are still searching. 

If your still on that journey searching for your skills and purpose in life, than you need to ask yourself the following questions. What do you enjoy most in life? Do you have any favorite hobbies or activities you prefer? What is it in life that drives you to the point of excitement and fulfillment? What are you good at? Where do you excel most in life? You want to take your time and be completely honest with yourself when answering these questions. 

Never rush into anything just because you feel the need to do something just to be productive. You want to pursue a goal and dream that satisfies you completely. Prior to becoming Spider-Man, Peter already had goals when he was in college. After becoming a superhero he than pursued an additional goal which was to protect innocent people in honor of his late uncle. What's sad is Peter could of prevented the death of his uncle who was murdered by the same burglar he declined to pursue hours earlier. 

 In life we must learn to cease every opportunity for success. Because the doors to many opportunities do close if you procrastinate for too long and don't take advantage right away. Peter lost his uncle because he failed to cease the moment to subdue his uncle soon to be killer. In the real world many people make the mistake of not ceasing opportunities at the moment. They allow laziness to takeover and decide this opportunity is not important and will present itself again someday. But unfortunately that's not always the case. 

The chance to save Ben Parker will be an opportunity Peter will never see again. Some opportunities only comes once in a lifetime. So make it a priority to take advantage of every opportunity that relates to your purpose and goals in life. We all have some type of great ability, skill, talent or gift. Every single person on this planet is great in their own way. And for those who don't believe their great, your wrong! Because you just need to discovery what your greatness is. And with greatness comes great responsibility!

Anuel St. Clair
Phone: 754-246-2924 
Email: anuel@choiceteam.net 
Website: www.choiceteam.net

Read More

Rise like The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight Rises is a film that displays a perfect example how one of the best super heroes learns to bounce back from adversities. In this film Bruce Wayne goes on an eight year hiatus from being Batman losing some of his skills and fighting edge. As a result of this Bruce Wayne uses a cane due to a leg injury he sustain during his layoff as the Batman. In the real world, many of us are like Batman at his prime staying focus on our goals. But unfortunately, like Batman we face defeat from time to time. 

However, we must rise to the occasion by fighting back until victory is ours. To achieve a life of success and prosperity we have to be willing to do what it takes to get there. In the film Batman suffers a defeat by Bane who delivers a crippling blow to his back. Bane then takes Batman to a well-like prison where escape seems virtually impossible. After months of recovery and training Batman attempts to escape the prison but fails after several attempts. 

Staying persistent he eventually escapes and defeats Bane in a final epic battle. So why is Batman always victorious? Is it because he is a very intelligent athletic gifted super human with unparalleled skills and tactics? Not exactly. The key to Batman's victories is the fact that he never gives up! No matter how impossible the challenge may seem Batman is always willing to do whatever it takes to rise to the occasion. 

Batman has even faced foes that are far more stronger than him. But that never stops Batman from trying to achieve his goals and objectives. In summary, you don't have to be a gifted intelligent perfectionist. You just need to believe in yourself and be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve your success. And most importantly, never ever give up on your goals and dreams. Whenever you face defeat or minor set backs always remember to Rise like The Dark Knight! 

Anuel St. Clair
Phone: 754-246-2924 
Email: anuel@choiceteam.net 
Website: www.choiceteam.net

Read More