11. Vision

Most success seems to stem from one main factor; individuality.

Whether it is finding something you are good at and marketing the hell
out of it, finding a new and innovative way of doing the oldest and simplest
thing imaginable, or coming up with innovations and brand new ideas
that rock the global marketplace, it's all about unique vision.

Stepping off of the beaten path can be a perilous ordeal. Not everyone
has the chops to face the slew of Nay-sayers and Doubting Thomases who
will fail to comprehend what it is you're doing.

Others are critical enough; if they are unable to see a solution or concept
in the way you do, or fail to understand the feasibility of bringing it about,
you may be all alone.

Keeping a sound, vivid image of what it is you're working for...keeping in
touch with that fire inside.... will be crucial to maintain enthusiasm when you hit
roadblock after roadblock.

They say that in order to create something, you first have to be able to envision
it coming into creation. That keeping a visible reminder--especially a physical
construct like a Vision Board of diagrams, artists' renderings, proposals-- will
help you better maintain the focus, allowing your vision to become reality.

10. Comprehension

Comprehensiveness is key to any plan.

What is it that you desire?

"Do you know where you're going to?"
(or are you merely along for the ride?)

What are your goals?

How do you intend to achieve them?

If you can't answer these questions,
then chances are that you won't make things
happen. We must have a road map and
a destination in order to get somewhere.
Otherwise, we can end up anywhere.

**************************************

"LIVING WITHOUT A DEFINITE MAJOR
PURPOSE PROMISES NOTHING BUT A
SCANT LIVING.

You may get by in life without a Definite Major
Purpose, but you will never get ahead. Definiteness
of purpose is the starting point of all achievement.
Financial goals in particular should be specific,
definite, and measurable. You should know what
you plan to earn, by when, and how you plan to
do so. The greatest advantage of financial security
is the peace of mind that comes from knowing that,
whatever challenges life brings, you are equipped to
deal with them. You will be better at whatever you
choose to do because you can focus on opportunities
instead of struggling to eke out a living"
- Napoleon Hill Foundation

**************************************
This isn't to say that a solid goal can't change
based on new information, a change in desire,
or some other positive response to life's ever
changing circumstances.

But you have to have a solid vision to start.

Lack of vision and clarity can keep us mired
down in the same old thing, day after day.

Looking beyond the immediate, and being able
to imagine something more--something better--is
key to being able to get there.

9. Close to the Vest

Business people and successful people can be
passionate about things, and utilize emotion in
their quest, but pick and choose what you share.

Keep personal matters and deep emotions, as
well as your history and interests, very close to
the vest. Most people will traffic in the commerce
of your personal business, even innocently.

And a friend or worker today may be an adversary
or competition tomorrow, so don't give all your info
away.

The old adage "Never let them see you sweat" is a
good one. People might expect that you are weak or
nervous, but unless they see the results or proof of
it, it is just speculation. It's always bad energy to let
people see your inner workings...to know that you
fear or have troubles.

Not everyone is looking for you to succeed...not even
the people supposedly in your camp. So the less you
let your Achilles' heels be exposed, the more poised
and ready for battle you are.

Never leave the house without a game plan. You
don't want anyone outside of yourself to see you
less than confidant, affable, and strong.

If you have to, fake it.

There are great affirmations, books, tapes, mantras
and more designed to help get you into a strong spirit
before you take on the world.

Do the leg work.