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!

Ask yourself this question... Is fear of the unknown holding you back from achieving your dreams?  Fear is a powerful motivator and believe it or not....Unconscious fear of disappointment, failure or even success can be holding you back.

Moving into uncharted territory can be scary and overwhelming but it gives you a golden opportunity to blossom and grow as your knowledge expands.  Out-of-date information and facts can affect your actions and decisions which in turn restrict your progress.

As you gain knowledge, experience and take action your fear will disappear and your confidence will increase. It takes courage to step outside your comfort zone and taking baby steps each and every day will move you forward and closer to your dreams and goals.

In order to grow and broaden your horizons you need to take those first steps.  Taking action each and every day is a critical part of moving forward.  Sometimes the smallest change can made the biggest difference.  Seize the moment.   Don’t let opportunities pass you by…Take advantage of each and every one.

“You don't have to get it right... Just get it going!”
~ Mike Litman ~

Beginning your ‘Journey of Discovery’ others...including family and friends will try to ‘rain on your parade’.  Never lose heart and above all…keep your dreams alive. Don't let your fears or the negativity of others keep holding you back.

More importantly, find like minded people to share your dreams and goals with who will nurture, inspire and guide you along your journey.  Your goals and expectations will evolve before your eyes as your confidence and knowledge grows.

Don’t limit yourself by refusing to learn or to ask questions.  It’s often been said…”The only ‘stupid’ question is the one not asked!”

The more you know, the easier it will be to focus on what’s important.  And… I'm sure you're already aware that...Knowledge Is Power!

Set goals to inspire you! And use mistakes as corrective feedback to get you back on track.  It's important to set realistic goals and congratulate yourself on each and every achievement... no matter how small.

There's no use living dreams in your head... you need to experience them.  Be encouraged to embrace your dreams and don’t allow your fears to stand in the way of your ultimate success...Demand the best for yourself, believe in yourself and the potential within you to succeed.

Spread Your Wings And Soar Like An Eagle... As You Begin Your Journey of Discovery And Make Your Dreams A Reality!