How does one ensure success?

 Isn’t it true that it’s hard to become successful in life and that, as many inspiring success stories as there are out there, there are twice as many depressing stories that don’t amount to anything?  Yes, it is true that bad things happen and that some visions of success are unrealistic.  It would not be wise to covet the riches of a movie star or the fame of a national figure.  This is an unrealistic expectation for most, propagated by the media, an institution that relies on the sensational and the unbelievable in order to sell their product.  Before you start to define what success really means you have to determine your own personal definition.  What do you want out of life, in the short-term and the long-term?

Setting goals is a must.  I believe in setting ambitious goals that are in alignment with what you want in your life.  When you set short-term goals, you are giving your mind more consistent reinforcement.  You are not focusing on one monumental feat every 5 years, but little goals perhaps every week or even every day.  It’s about progress and achieving milestones along the way to your long-term and life-time goals. The more goals you fulfill, even if they are relatively small, the better you will feel about yourself.  Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and forgive yourself for your mistakes.  This is what makes or breaks self-esteem.  Increase your self-esteem by measuring your progress.  You know if you are making progress you are on the path toward achieving your goals.