It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult undertaking which, more than anything else, will determine its outcome. If we ask those who have achieved greatness in any field for the secrets of their success, somewhere near the top of most of their lists will be a visualization of their goal. Here's an essay for success derived from the writings of Keith Phillips.

Throughout years of rigorous training, the Olympic champion pictured himself on the podium, receiving his gold medal. The prima ballerina saw herself doing grand  jetes on the world’s finest stages. The Nobel-winning scientist imagined his eureka moment. The star saleswoman mentally packed her bags 365 times for that prize spa vacation.

It took hard work to be sure, but they get where they did in part by picturing themselves already there. When it finally happened, many would tell you, it was exactly as they had seen it in their mind’s eye.

Read the Bible’s Faith Hall of Fame” chapter, Hebrews 11, and you’ll see that this visualization technique is nothing new. It says of Noah, Abraham, Moses, and others who did extraordinary things, “They all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them” Hebrews 11:13

Like the Olympian, the ballerina, the Nobel laureate, and the saleswoman, they each focused on the prize, but with one important difference. The things for which these Bible greats are most remembered were merely steppingstones to the ultimate prize they strove for -God’s eternal reward for a life that was pleasing to Him.

So if you want to succeed this year and beyond, “Keep your eye on the prize.” – whatever it is that you want to get out of life.

And for the ultimate in success, find out what God wants you to contribute in this life. Only He knows that, but He will tell you if you ask.

Set your sights on that, and God will not only give you the extra ump you need, He will heap on blessings all along the way. Psalm 374:84:11, Matthew 6:33

And when this life is over, you’ll hear Him say, “Well done” What could be better than that?

Success is the good fortune that comes from aspiration, desperation, perspiration and inspiration. Evan Esar