How High is Your Ceiling?

Each and every one of us has goals. The fortunate thing about goals is that we have the power to set the height of our achievement ceiling wherever we want according to our desire for success and our tolerance for the work required to attain them. Sounds pretty simple and straight forward, right? Set a goal and get to work. If only it were that simple. Fact is it could be that simple if we would only get out of our own way and "just do it" as the Nike commercial used to say.

Goal Setting and Follow-through...

Having a goal is crucial to the momentum of our personal and professional lives. One of the most basic steps of goal-setting is to start by setting achievable goals that support our objectives. Notice I didn't say to set "realistic" or "easy" goals. Those terms are entirely too vague and do little-to-nothing to provide the validation required to help us grow. Having incremental goals that lead to a defining objective — our ceiling — is an important part of the process of goal setting and goal attainment.

A Goal is Just a Goal...

A goal is just a goal...until you take the first step that sets it into motion. Be sure to set achievement milestones that allow you to gauge and celebrate the steady progression toward the goals that define you (or your objective). Each milestone achievement brings renewed insight and perspective that helps propel you toward your ultimate goal. Celebrate each milestone. After all, each achievement serves as a foothold in the progression of your journey and is worthy of celebration. Be quick to notice the personal transformation taking place in your life as the progression brings new experiences, insight, and wisdom.

One of the most critical aspects of goal-setting is consistent follow-through. Frankly speaking, we can set all the goals we want but if we don't follow through with action we may as well not set goals at all. Action is the catalyst that provides momentum. A personal transformation takes place in the midst of momentum that affirms our ability to attain that which we desire.  "You can do it" takes on an entirely different meaning when we actually know it through the affirmation of our own experiences.

Goals should never be set by the standards and abilities of other people...unless they are clearly defined as "team goals." Keep in mind, however, that even when goals are defined by a team or group, we have an individual responsibility to do our part to ensure the team succeeds.

Define Your Ceiling

How high is your ceiling? Don't ever be afraid to set GRAND goals.

Want to be the best salesperson in your organization? Want to lose weight, get in the best shape of your life and rock a body you're proud of? Declare it and set that goal. Just don't forget to kick start your quest with action, follow-through, and to mark your progress with incremental goals. These elements will validate your direction while they shape your experiences and lead you to greatness.

By the way, when you get close to your ceiling, it'll be time to raise the roof!

Until next time...

-G-

"The first step in getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are." 
~ J. P. Morgan

"Set a goal so big that you know you can't achieve it until you grow into the person who can."
~ Unknown


We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...



   

A Formula for Success

Success is one of the most broadly defined terms in the lexicon or jargon of achievement-minded people. It's no wonder then that more people are often uncertain whether they have truly achieved success in any real sense.

Let's agree for a moment that success, even in its broadest context, is personally defined. You actually get to define what success looks and feels like for your life. What an awesome opportunity! Be careful not to define it by the standards of others, however, because their formula will not work for your version of success. Claiming your definition assures your ultimate happiness and actually assures the fact that success will be indeed achieved. Also, beware of the inherent danger of defining your success against a monetary standard. While money is an element of success it should never be used as the standard by which success is measured. The only pure measure of success is happiness.

Contrary to popular belief, we do not pursue success, we attract it. One of the most exciting things about this philosophy is that the attraction formula is relatively easy to follow and the results are almost immediate. With a clear vision, presence of mind, and a determination for change, we have the power to attract elements of success into our lives. Those elements ignite an evidentiary transformation that reminds of the things we must do daily in order to reach the ideal of our defined model of success.

As we make small changes in our lives we begin to experience the positive results that are attached to those new disciplines—most of which are experiences that occur...almost immediately. Our biggest responsibility is to recognize the changes and to systematically build upon them. The positive results we experience serve as a confirmation that we're on the right path and as motivators that power our determination to become better at developing even more disciplines.

As we begin to see the course of our lives shift toward our ideal definition of success we are reminded that the only way we can attract success is through a philosophy that begins with a personal transformation of patience and persistence. Do the right thing consistently and success will find its way to you. And remember, success is a process, not an event, so exercise patience while knowing that you are attracting success through the transformation process one step at a time.

Until next time...

-G-

"Attract what you expect, reflect what you desire, become what you respect, mirror what you admire." 
~ Unknown

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Create Your Certainty

We are the creators of our own destiny. Those words are a mighty strong declaration when you consider the natural state of entropy and uncertainty that exists in the world. Yet, if we stop long enough to acknowledge the reality of this statement, we would clearly see that there are many people who live by the powerful simplicity of this credo. In short, you can create a certainty in your life that will lead you to a destiny of preference rather than one of circumstance.

To be clear, we are not defined by our circumstance. If circumstance has dealt you a bad hand, then rest assured it has done so for a reason. Look for the insight that resides inside the veil of circumstance and take responsibility to learn from the lessons it provides. Then...make a conscious decision to redefine your destiny using the virtues of opportunity created by circumstance.

We create our own reality by the choices we make. If you think about it, the manner in which we act or react to literally anything and everything sets the perspective on how we see life. The power of choice is one of the most extraordinary tools we have at our disposal to literally change the course of our lives. Want people to respect you? Then choose to be respectful. Want to realize a dream or goal? Then make a choice to create that goal and chart a course. Don't wait. Make a decision right now to use the power of choice to create certainty in your life. But don't stop there. Now you must act!

Certainty Reveals a New Direction

Your action is the catalyst that allows you to escape circumstance through the immense power of your ability to choose a new direction. If you find yourself in a state of unhappiness for whatever reason, you must first understand that you have the power to change it. Only you can decide when you've had enough of your current circumstances. Only you can redefine the kind of life you desire. And only you can decide to do something about it. No one else can change your circumstances without your permission. You create your own certainty!

Want to be the top producer in your company? Create your certainty by making a conscious decision to be just that. Your power of choice creates opportunities. Take advantage of the opportunities. Emulate others who are successful. Do what they do. And be persistent. Follow through with a plan and act on it. Don't like your job...your relationship...your finances? Look beyond your circumstances by creating a vision of the conditions you desire. Then...create your certainty!

Tap Into Your Ability to Visualize

Your ability to visualize is a powerful force that brings about change. Think about the last time you really thought about something that excited you. My bet is that it changed your entire state of being. Your ability to visualize increases confidence, sharpens your creative acuity, and enhances your ability to see opportunities instead of obstacles. Make a conscious declaration using the powerful images of your vision that right now is when you will begin to realize your dreams.

Be Decisive!

Remember, life doesn't happen "to" us—it happens "for" us. The point is that we get a vote on how it happens "for" us. Don't get in your own way. Get out of your head as soon as possible and get into a state of being that supports your dreams, desires, and aspirations. Your state—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—is something you will begin to experience changes in once you consciously decide to enact change.

Be decisive and don't stray...no matter what. Don't allow fear to get between you and your ability to decide. Make that decision! Whether it is right or wrong you will find out faster than if you avoid making a decision altogether. You can always make adjustments once your plan is under way.

Life is about the experience of the journey and the moments we create along the way. The content and quality of the experiences are largely determined by the certainty we create and the rituals we keep. Are your rituals supporting your dreams, goals, and aspirations? If not, perhaps it's time to do something about it.

Until next time...
-G-

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." 
~ G. Westfal

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Permission to Soar!

What is your wildest dream, your biggest goal, or the one thing you desire more than most anything else? As you watch the images of your dreams play out in your mind, be quick to grab hold of the way you feel. Don’t let go and give yourself permission to soar on the possibilities. Savor the way it makes you feel. Are you energized? You should be. Do you realize that you can “feel” this way any time you want?

If our dreams, goals, and aspirations make us feel so great then why aren’t we riding them more often? It’s time to conduct a quick assessment on where we are versus where we desire to be…or who we desire to become. Are you moving closer to your objectives? Some may answer “yes, but…” If your answer is the same or anything less, perhaps you’re not giving yourself permission to soar.

 

Think for a moment about the way you feel when your dreams are at the forefront of your mind. Our minds create an image that ignites passion which, in turn, stimulates a physical response that produces endorphins that bring about clarity and creativity. If you’re like me, the drive and passion are so intense during those moments that there’s nothing that can derail or prevent me from grabbing the next rung of the ladder to my objective, no matter what it takes. Something happens when the ideals of our dreams, goals, and desires line up with the mind, body, and spirit. That “something” is called synergy!

 

Synergy is the interaction of two or more substances, entities, or agents to produce an effect far greater than the sum of their distinctive parts. Simply put, synergy is power. It’s a power every one of us possesses. You can experience synergy anytime you wish. It’s true.

 

The source of synergy is imagination. Try this – go back to the opening paragraph and tap into the images that support your greatest desires. As soon as you “see” the images you begin the process of your own synergy. Now, rinse, lather, and repeat…and repeat…and repeat. It’s the way habits are formed. What better habit to form than one that’ll literally change the course of your life?

 

Synergy is limited only by our own ability to allow it to multiply. In other words, if we get out of our own way and open our minds to the fact that we can achieve anything we desire, our imaginations will be free to show us more than we can already imagine. It has been said that our subconscious cannot discern the difference between fact and fiction. By continually tapping into our imaginations we feed and convince our subconscious of the reality we desire. So why not have fun with this and convince it of where you want to go instead of where you are and who you wish to become rather than who you currently are? It’s the beginning of a path to greatness and is a law of nature that will work for any one of us.  

Until next time...
-G-

"You have the power to set the tone of your day through the choices you make and the thoughts that dominate your mind." 
~ G. Westfal

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...
  

The Seasons of Change...

Every one of us has something in our lives we'd like to change. Sometimes we're ready for change—a change in jobs, a change of scenery, a change in our physical or financial state.

Whatever our desire for change, one thing is almost always certain—change is difficult. Why is that? After all, most changes we desire are typically ones that'll bring about goodness and happiness. Well, for starters, resistance to change allows us to rest in a place we have become comfortably numb. Despite the promise of a brighter outlook, there's a certain amount of solace in sticking with the status quo. Don't fall for it!

If you're ready to affect real change in your life for whatever reason, consider the following keys. They'll help you make the changes you desire and increase your chances for a successful and lasting outcome.

1. Determine why you want to change. The why behind the desire for change is an often overlooked aspect that is hastily considered, if it is considered at all. Most times the reasons for our desire for change is so obvious (to us) that we see little reason to give it much thought. However, if we spend a little time on the why, we begin to realize its inherent power. You see, knowing the why and believing in the why are subtle shifts in thinking that can make a huge difference in determining whether or not we stay on track to seeing our changes take place.

2. Change only one thing at a time. A central focus on one central issue provides clarity and prevents us from becoming overwhelmed. This approach allows us to break things down into smaller, more attainable goals. Reaching these attainable goals empowers us with the fortitude we need to handle increasing roles we'll likely face as we seek greater change.

3. Focus on what you have to gain over what you have to lose. One of the biggest reasons people resist change is based on a fear of loss. We see change as an unknown while we see our current circumstances as the comfortable known aspect of our lives that we have come to accept as a permanent reality and one we fear losing. It doesn't have to be that way. You can lose weight, get into better shape, establish loving and powerful relationships, become more successful, financially independent, or whatever else you desire. You just have to stop viewing your current circumstances as "good enough" to keep you in a state of resistance to change. You must also change the way you see your current circumstances by reframing them from something you have to lose to everything you have to gain by embracing change.

4. Set realistic expectations. Some will say we should eliminate time limits as we seek change. Although there is some truth to that statement as it relates to patience, it can be misleading. Instead, I advocate that we should set realistic expectations. It's true that change is a process and not an event. Therefore, some changes take time to fully materialize. Knowing that, however, should not relieve us of the responsibility to operate with an attitude of expectancy and recognize the seasons of change as we take actions to ignite change. 



"Change is a process and not an event."

In order to live and thrive in this world, we must be receptive to change. Change is going to occur whether we like it or not. If you're seeking change in your life it may require you to shift your thinking, readjust your habits, let go of old hurts, and ignore your circumstances. Only when you're freed from past burdens will you be able to take full advantage of what lies in front of you right now.

In order to effectively embrace change we must not view change as an attack on our current way of thinking, rather a fresh new mindset that prevents us from fighting against ourselves. Unfortunately, our brains are wired to resist change. Knowing that up front arms us with the knowledge and awareness it takes to embrace change instead of avoiding it.

The next time you're faced with a challenge to accept the status quo or to enact change, pause for just a second to allow the surge of the moment to take affect and reveal the magic of your alternatives. This subtle action will yield powerful results and give you the power to embark on a brand new course to bringing about the changes you seek in your life. Take back the power of choice that's yours and watch the changes begin to abound!

Until next time...

-G-

"The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but by building the new." 
~ Socrates

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...





  

Happiness is in Your Hands

The meaning of life can be summed up in one simple yet profound word—happiness. Yet, it may surprise you to know that a rather small number of people consider themselves to be truly happy.

Scientific polls place the average percentage of happy people to be less than 20%. When asked about happiness most people will tell you they're "generally happy" while others will freely admit they seldom experience much happiness at all. Less than 20% confidently define their lives as fulfilling or flourishing. That's less than one in five! These basic stats raise the question: How do I become one of the 20-per centers?

Happiness is relative. In other words, it is personally defined. Yet, there are certain fundamentals that support a foundational premise that can help you find (and maintain) a state of happiness in your life. I've gathered a few of these simple principles you may wish to consider as you search for your own true version of happiness. These principles, along with many others, have worked well for me. And I suspect they will work for you as well.

Gratitude - Known as one of the most profound and powerful happiness boosters, gratitude will immerse your entire being with the goodness of life. Gratitude reveals the precious nature of life and the sincerities of mankind in a way that can often be awe-inspiring. Gratitude can make you happier. It can make you see life differently, and it can change your entire state of being.

Gratitude exercise - Every day think of three things you are grateful for. Do it for two weeks without skipping a day. At the end of two weeks determine whether or not you feel happier. My bet is that you surely will.

Passion - Each and every one of us is good at something. Operating in the lane of passion supports happiness and gives us a sense of accomplishment and contribution.

Passion exercise - Think about the best version of yourself and move toward that. Learn something, connect with someone, and act on something that supports your passion.

Time - Spending time with the right people speaks to our sense of belonging and our basic social nature. The happiest people are generally social and have strong relationships.

Time exercise - Interact with people. Discover the true value of human interaction with other like-minded people. If you tend to be more of a social introvert, try stepping outside your lane of familiarity and see the kinds of things being social can provide. Happiness is more contagious than unhappiness, so a bit of exposure may actually open up a whole new world for you.

Give - There's just no doubt about it, giving makes us happier than receiving. Giving creates a perpetuate cycle of happiness that's difficult to describe. Experience giving and you'll quickly know the power of this concept.

Giving exercise - Volunteer. Do something nice for someone as you discover a need. It can be the most selfless way of being selfish while creating a sense of personal joy that is difficult to top.

Savor - There's nothing wrong with savoring fond memories of the past or anticipating an exciting event. However, to truly tap into the strongest aspect of happiness, we should focus as much as we possibly can on the present moment. Doing so allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the magic of the moment as it unfolds before us. Savoring such moments are an important aspect to the basic tenets of happiness.

Savor exercise - Stop what you're doing right now and savor the things that are going on around you. Draw a deep breath and savor the fresh sense of life that enters your lungs. Listen to the sounds, savor the voices, the sights, the experiences and the power of right now. Smile knowing that these things are the essence of life and a true reason to be happy.

Avoid regrets - We all know the story of the person who lies on their deathbed looking back upon life with regrets. "I wish I had the courage to live life differently," "I wish I hadn't worked so hard," "I wish I had allowed myself to be happier," "I wish I had..." The last thing any of us want is for this scenario to play out in our own lives. But it will unless you realize that you have the power to be happy right now. You control your own state of happiness and it isn't as difficult as it may first appear.

So...smile, savor the goodness of life, and discover reasons to be happy. The power to do so is in your hands. 

Until next time...

-G-

"Happiness is an inside job."
~ William Arthur Ward

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Rise Above Mediocrity

You want to get to the top but are often frustrated with things that keep getting in the way of your progress. No matter what you do there never seems to be enough time, money, or resources to bring about the changes you seek.
 
I'm going to share with you one of the most powerful messages I've ever discovered. It made me believe that anything is possible and that whatever success I want to achieve I indeed could achieve it. It would not be without hard work and commitment, but the concept was simple. And I instantly knew it to be true.
 
They called it a secret. In fact it was literally called "the greatest secret in the world." And that secret is this: The key to success is that you only need to be a small, measurable amount better than mediocrity to be successful.
 
Wrap your mind around that for just a second. Could that really  be true? In its simplest form, it is. You see, most people happily accept mediocrity. Oh sure, some people will tell you how much they desire to get to the top, but their actions and choices reveal an entirely different version of the words they convey. Invariably, these people give up on the meaningful things they hope to accomplish because of the mediocrity they choose to accept. I'm here to tell you it doesn't have to be that way.

OK, so how do we become better and rise above mediocrity? A good place to start is by redefining how we measure ourselves against mediocrity. The term mediocrity can be simply described as the best of the worst and the worst of the best. In other words, it is the equivalent of the status quo—a position or attitude whereby risk is avoided and comfort is essential.

If you are risk averse it doesn't mean you'll never succeed. If your goals and ambitions don't compel you to set aside comfort (or the latest TV show, video game, or distraction) for the sake of your goals it doesn't mean you're a loser. It simply means you're not ready to do what it takes to reach the top. But when you are, these aspects of life must be reconsidered in order to begin to see results.

Are you acting on your desire to reach the top, to become something more, or to achieve an objective? Are you taking action to be even slightly more than mediocre? You already intuitively know what it takes to succeed. To discover the drive within you should find out what it is you are passionate about and act upon it. Does your desire for success compel you more than your desire for acceptance and the status quo? Are you learning at least one new concept or lesson that will propel you beyond mediocrity? Are you using time wisely? How are your actions measured against what you know to be average compared to what you know to be better than average?

Are your goals and objectives clearly defined? This is very important because if you don't know where you're going you will never know when you have arrived. Worse yet, you may never get there without an accurate description of your objective or goal. Have you defined "the top" against your own desires and standards? If you're defining your goals against the standards of others then you are missing the mark and will likely fail.

Are you passionate about your goals? If so, you're well on your way to achieving them. Passion is the catalyst for action. It is the essential ingredient that will help you continue your quest to achieve despite circumstances or obstacles. Passion is what keeps people going when others quit and accept mediocrity. Find something to be passionate about and you will have discovered the secret to success and, more importantly, happiness.

Passion drives determination. Determination describes an attitude that says "I will not quit. I am more than ordinary. I will reach the top." While most people look at their circumstances and decide to retreat, those with determination courageously step forward to scale whatever obstacles they have to, right now, to reach their goals and objectives. They don't wait for "the right time" because the right time is right now!

Master the right skills. Average skills will get you to the middle. Extraordinary skills will get you to the top! Are you proficient in the skills you need to reach the top? If so, you must continue to nurture those skills. If not, you must acquire them. Seek wisdom, knowledge, and abilities that support your passion and you will become a measure better each and every day you make the effort. Your collective improvements will begin to compound and ultimately put you in a category far beyond ordinary and into one that will be extraordinary!

Last, treat people with dignity and respect. No one knows everything but everyone knows something. You cannot get to the top without the help and/or support of others. If you think otherwise, try being a jerk and see how far that gets you. Treating people with respect and dignity will pay huge dividends in winning the hearts and minds of those who may end up helping you to reach the top. We all rely on the expertise of someone who has knowledge or skills we need in order to succeed, whether that expertise comes in the form of a product or service or mentoring or consultation. Never forget that you must be able to work well with others.

You can escape the bonds of mediocrity and realize your ultimate potential if you're willing to look at things differently and begin to take small measured steps to be better today than you were yesterday. It's not as complicated as it may seem.

Until next time!

-G-

"The minute you settle for less than you deserve you get even less than what you settle for."
~ Unknown

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

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