“At any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.”

 –  Abraham Maslow

Many things shape the quality of our lives? One, in particular, gives us the power to change everything, every day? I am a big believer in the power of choice. It is one of the most basic abilities that we possess, as humans, and lies at the very core of everything we do…and don’t do. Even when we can’t control what is coming at us, we can choose to control our response. In any Psychology 101 class, we learn that we do things to either avoid pain or gain pleasure. That is our choice. I’ve had the privilege of working with an incredibly diverse group of people, from professional athletes to leaders of industry, to members of our Military. The one thing that consistently makes them successful is the power of the choices they make. Success is a result of making good choices; good choices are made as a result of experience, in most cases. We must begin looking at both our victories, as well as our defeats, as opportunities to learn. We can use that knowledge to grow. Take time today to explore your own situation. How often do you think about the choices that you have made? Are you currently facing a situation that is demanding a significant choice? What have you experienced in the past that will allow you to make the right decision? How will your life be affected by the choices you could make? What would happen if you chose to remain where you are, and do nothing? No one ever made the winning play, by standing on the sidelines where it is safe. Everything you have ever accomplished has been the result of the choices you have made. Don’t be afraid to move forward toward the life you want.

It is important to remember that taking risks may be a necessary step in actively pursuing personal success. Try reframing your thinking, to view risk as an opportunity to succeed, rather than a path to failure. Your life will ultimately become what you decide to make it. Get a clear picture, create a workable plan, and allow yourself to succeed.