Perseverance
You fail only if you quit trying.
Perseverance is the key to success. Pioneers such as Thomas Edison applied for 14,000 patents and finally succeeded registering 1,400. He and many other over achievers found that success was achieved only if they persevered in their efforts. The process of perseverance in acquiring your ultimate goal is a learning process, you learn from your mistakes. You can test your perseverance by answering these questions:

•  Do I believe in myself?
  
•  Do I have clear career goals?
  
•  Do I address my limitations?
  
•  Do I bounce back quickly from disappointments?
  
•  Do I have stamina to persist?
  
•  Do I have a solid support group, family & friends?
  
•  Am I adaptable?
  
•  Do I focus on completion of a project?
  
•  Are my goals consistent with my purpose and personal values?
  
•  Do I persist even when my actions are unpopular ?

TIPS TO HELP YOU PERSEVERE
1. Clarify your goal; know why you chose it and how you and others will benefit. State your goal, tell others, write desired outcomes of what you want to accomplish, be detailed and specific.

2. Outline strategies, establish a timeline. Know your resources and gather them. Break the goal into small steps working backward from your desired outcome and achievement date.

3. Develop support systems, your friends relatives keep them informed on progress, celebrate your short term successes with them. Select sources of encouragement and information such as books, tapes with positive uplifting themes.

4. Choose positive and productive attitudes; don't dwell on past failures or short term setbacks. Maintain your optimism, utilize positive self-talk. Keep a diary of good experiences. Acknowledge your accomplishments. Judge your accomplishments against personal standards of self-improvements. Have the courage of your convictions. Don't compare yourself with others.

5. Develop the will to risk, don't fear mistakes. Research your goals to reduce negative outcomes. Interview other successful people, learn from their experiences. Always view mistakes as an opportunity for growth.

6. Maintain a health lifestyle, care for your mind, body and spirit. Schedule quiet times to reflect and rearm and rejuvenate. Practice stress relieving strategies, exercise, meditation, sufficient rest, a healthy diet and time out for friends and family activities.

7. self-imaging is important, hold your goal firmly in your mind picture yourself attaining your goal. Each morning picture your goal and every night your last thought before sleep.

8. Most important of all believe in yourself and your ability to Attain your goal. When you are totally focused and dedicated you can achieve the extraordinary.

Carole Kanchier - a psychologist and executive coach.

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