Are We There Yet?

I only played a few card games growing up but I got fairly good at most of them. When I’m learning a new card game there are only two things I want to know: what are the rules and how do I win?

I’ve often heard people say, “start with the end in mind.”  This approach to life will work for anyone. You have to start with your desired outcome in mind.  Desired outcome in this article will be referred to as Success. But what is success? How do you define it? How do you know when you’ve achieved it?

I have found it intriguing that most people have never taken the time to define what success is to them. What I find even more fascinating is that most people don’t realize that someone else is defining success for them.

People aren’t aware that a lot of their goals, ambitions and dreams are influenced from sources outside of them.  Some people’s definition of success is coming from a parent, spouse, ex-girlfriend/boyfriend, childhood elementary school teacher, pastor or a celebrity. Another common occurrence is that most people’s definition of success is way too broad.  The goal of this article is not to define success for you but to tell you that it’s important to define it.  And you should be aware of who or what is influencing your ideals.

Here are some tips to help you on your journey to success:

Clarity is key.

Be clear on what you want and why you want it.  Have a specific definition of success in your heart and look for the purpose behind it.  Examining the purpose of success will reveal your underlying motivations.  Once you’re aware of your underlying motivations, you’ll know if your intentions are noble and if your definition will get you to your desired end.  You need clarity to know where you’re trying to go so you recognize when you’re there.

Focus brings freedom. 

If you learn to master yourself you will discover freedom to be what you want to be and do what you want to do. Once you know your target (success) make a decision to aim your life at that target.  This requires intense focus and some discipline.  It could mean that you sometimes have to do things you don’t feel like doing and often have to go without doing things you enjoy.  Self-control helps you develop an unusual amount of focus. Learning to balance work and play is part of the art of self-control.

Learn the rules of the game, have a clear vision of your desired outcome and always play to win!

© Solape Osoba 2011