No one sets failure as a goal. Yet, failure is a statistical probability in life. So, we need to be prepared to face the possibility of it. We can’t be afraid to fail. Confidence isn’t gained by the timid and fearful. As anxious as we might be in a given situation, we must find the courage to perform with strength and determination, despite the ever-present possibility of failure.
The journey to success actually has a simple formula. The formula is not commonly used because most people tend to jump to ends while disregarding the means to those ends. Successful people understand that the goals they focus on each day are very important. They must be achievable and easy to evaluate. As they attain each goal, they give themselves credit for the achievement. As their confidence grows with each success, so does their performance.
Consider this mantra: “Do fundamental things on a daily basis.” Write this down and post it where you will see it often through your day. It is a way for you to encourage yourself to use this simple formula for success.
What are the fundamental things you need to do each day to help you move toward your goal? Make a list. Pick one to do daily for this week. Don’t let the fear of failure stop you. Celebrate each day you do this one thing. When you have this firmly in place, look at your list and add another task to do daily. As you review each day, praise yourself for each triumph until you have a full week. Then, add another step. As time passes, if you keep choosing positive pathways, you will see real progress. Success is a series of choices. As long as you make the better choice, you have a chance.
I recently heard a story of a coach who, as he encouraged his players to make good choices, would add, “You never know!” At the end of the season, as they walked off the field as State Champions, he was able to remind them that “Now they knew.”
Remember, you must make the right choices if you are to have a chance to succeed! At the last weigh-in of this year, if you keep making good choices, you can look back, smile and say, “Now I know!”
I Care, Barb
By Tami Howse August 24, 2014
I LOVE these posts. I’m a new leader in my TOPS group, and I’m excited to share your ideas with the group. We are small, but the proportion of people who aren’t online is great, so most of these posts will be new to the gang. I love inspiring them (and hopefully, I’m effective). Fondly, Tami
By Barb Cady August 27, 2014
It is obvious how much you care about your members. That caring will inusre you are effective. I am honored to support your efforts in any way I can!
By Linda G. Spano August 18, 2014
I really try to work on one thing at a time.when I have that down I move onto another goal. Not so overwhelming that way! My biggest challenge was when I became a leader. Then I thought back to how I set goals with my weight loss program, & said I can do it with becoming a Leader. First, I never liked speaking in front people, especially larger crowds, so I told myself, Linda just start small. So, first I made sure I had an agenda sheet to help me along!! Number one thing for me to have!! Still is!! Then I thought oh, how am I ever going to do a program that will keep the groups interest, so I started out with a very short program, can’t remember what it was, but very short!! Then I thought ok, what is my goal for being a Leader?? So I started with, well, they voted me Leader, so they must think I can do it. So my first goal was to make sure, that I was always aware, that this wasn’t my Chapter, but our chapter. Then I moved on a little each month & challenged myself in other ways, interesting programs, being more creative with contests & ceremonies, etc.So glad I didn’t give up with weight loss or being a leader! We have an awesome group! I appreciate each & everyone one of them, as they do me!!
By Barb Cady August 19, 2014
What an inspiration you are, Linda!! Thanks so much for replying!
By Sylvia J Duncan August 18, 2014
Great column as usual Barb. It really is one manageable choice at a time. Thank you for such sensible input.
I will try to chip away at the parts that need repair most.
I choose not to snack after dinner except for my milk before bed.
By Barb Cady August 18, 2014
Terrific choice, Sylvia! We can do this one step at a time!