Looking at yet another article on "how to succeed"... I noticed that it outlined several steps. Now... I really don't know if I completely agree with all of them per se... but in a nutshell... here they are:

1. Positive thinking. Lots of plans that plot avenues to take towards success in life tout the importance of positive thinking. In fact; the whole SECRET phenomenon wraps itself around the power of intention... which is similar. Now... this is not to say that you should become blind to the reality of the situation at hand.

2. Stay fit. The article states the importance of eating as well as you can afford... and exercising regularly. Nuf said.

3. Upgrade your value. This one talks about increasing your own value by continuing education in your chosen field... constantly trying to improve your techniques, etc. Not sure I feel like my self-worth is wrapped up in my education or talents alone... but ... I do understand the importance of continuing to improve and learn.

4. Evaluate the status quo. I think this one goes back to step #1... where you get the occasional reality check so to speak...

5. Take action. Ie: success won't come to you... you have to go out and get it. And if you really really want it... you will keep going after it.

6. Persist. As in try, try, again.

Looking thru these articles... has been a learning process for me. It's not that the information is new to me... in fact... alot of it is simply common sense. However, what I did learn was from taking these concepts to heart... and really sitting down and applying them to my current situation and figuring out how that applies to ME. NoW.

*photos by Elaine A. Russell