The Beijing 2008 Olympic Games are under way and I’m sure you can identify with these athletes as they prepare to represent their countries.

Are you hanging back or taking advantage of golden opportunities to dive off the starting blocks and propel yourself to greatness?

Like many athletes this is a once in a lifetime opportunity that needs to be grasped with both hands to make the most of this special moment in time. Are there opportunities in your life slipping by?

"Life Is A Daring Adventure Or Nothing At All"
~ Helen Keller ~

For many to go after your dreams you need words of encouragement to help you feel confident enough to take these first steps.

Never underestimate 'The Power Of Encouraging Words'.  Receiving and giving encouraging words help others to develop their strengths.  While it’s important to give words of encouragement to others, it is vital to give them to yourself.

You can uplift and strengthen by your words of encouragement not only to others but also to encourage yourself. ..Remember to take time out to occasionally give yourself a pat on the back.

During these times of change usually known as ‘Lessons of Life’....You need words of encouragement especially when… from out of nowhere and totally unexpected….that curve ball comes your way and wants to suck the wind right out of your sails.

“You Can't Change The Direction Of The Wind, But…
You Can Adjust Your Sails To Always Reach Your Destination.”

You may be wondering how to encourage yourself.  Are you aware that compliments, encouragement and praise can shape lives and futures?  Words are powerful and can heal or hurt. I want you to stop & think for a moment and ask yourself....How are your own words shaping your future?

A great exercise is to make a list of the positive and negative ways you describe yourself. This list is for your eyes only so don’t feel you have to share it with others.  Now I'm asking you to be honest and look over your list of words and phrases.  Are your words encouraging or discouraging?   Do you believe your words are limiting your ability to accomplish all that you deserve in life?  Putting on 'mind blinkers' can also screen out your success.

It is time to recognize that these negative thoughts in your head are no longer serving you. But right now you need to replace them with positive and uplifting thoughts and words of encouragement.

“Kind Words Can Be Short and Easy To Speak,
But Their Echoes Are Truly Endless.”
~ Mother Theresa ~

Reading Inspirational Books or listening to tapes (you can often find real gems at your local thrift store) and cds can be very uplifting and encouraging.  Some of my favourite books are by  Anthony Robbins which sit  on my bedside table and I often read before going to bed.

Another great idea experts have proven is that it's helpful to start writing your journal to keep daily notes of not only your mental thoughts but of your progress along your journey.

How do you view setbacks.... as obstacles and a hindrance or as a golden opportunity to take on a challenge to test your skills.  Have you ever considered that these setbacks are your teacher and are often replaced with equal or better opportunities?

Stepping outside your comfort zone teaches you to really learn to soar & take advantage of your hidden talents and untapped resources to achieve more of your potential.  I'm sure you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you can achieve.

It's very rewarding making your dreams come true.  Make your dreams a reality and speak the words of encouragement you need to propel yourself along your journey of discovery. You are unique in each and every way and deserve the best that life has to offer.

Keep speaking words of encouragement and take advantage of golden opportunities. Dive off the starting blocks and propelling yourself to greatness….You Deserve It!