by Lynn Deerman

Created on: January 02, 2009   Last Updated: October 04, 2010

The first step to being successful with any endeavor is knowing what you want. Actually, this step may also be the most problematic. In this country, our opportunities are many and we can truly do anything we set our minds to do. This step will take some time to look at personal values, strengths, weaknesses and an end acknowledgement of what truly brings us happiness. My personal measure of success is happiness.

A person who makes millions, but is unhappy will still feel worthless. Looking deep inside oneself, eliminating external forces pushing you a certain direction, will give you the answer you need. Setting individual priorities, null of societal pressures will move you in the right direction. Once you have made up your mind of what you want to do with your life, research. Gather all the information you can find on the topic.

The internet is invaluable, however, you also will want to talk with people in the field in which you are interested. Look at all of the options and opportunities surrounding your chosen field. At this point, you will want to reassess. Did you find the information you obtained reinforced your ideals or did you not have a realistic picture of the chosen field.

First and foremost, be honest with yourself, if the endeavor you have chosen seems inconsistent with your values or expected lifestyle, take the time to consider other options. There is no need to rush yourself to a decision. If you are happy with the information you have obtained, some spark of internal excitement and anticipation will be evident.

Now that you have made your decision and gathered your information, sit down and make a plan to meet you end goal. The end goal may take years to achieve, therefore, you will set small goals to achieve along the way, all the while building to and keeping your eye on what you want and where you want to be.

There may be barriers to work through and the biggest challenge will be to not give up on yourself. Nothing will be more detrimental to your desired outcome than for you to give up on yourself. Others may be wary or not support you, but that will have no impact whatsoever if you believe in yourself and your dream.

Be sure not to take yourself too seriously, however, remember that life is about enjoying it, so as you journey to your desired life, take the time to take in all of life's miracles and enjoy every day with the confidence that you can do anything, literally, that you really want to do.

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