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Why is it that we fail so often after we have decided to do
something? The answer, I think, can be had in one word: options.
When we decide something, we most often consider
other possibilities, other options. We have a goal, an objective.
But it is our decision to pursue that goal solid.
Do you consider the possibility of failure? Do
you have a plan B in mind, just in case things do not work out?
When the Romans invaded the British Isles long
ago, their commander knew something about making firm decisions. He
lined up his army along the seashore and then ordered the ships the
invaders had used to come ashore to be burned. By doing so, the
general made it clear to his men that they had no option but to
conquer. The only other option (death) was unacceptable. That Roman
army did what they had to do: they won the British Isles.
If only we approached our decision making in the
same resolute manner, we would be a whole lot more successful in our
endeavors. All to often, however, we decide without really deciding.
We say we want this or that, but we are not very sure about what it
is we truly want. We say one thing, but give ourselves so many
options that we tend to lose focus.
It is like the man who is courting three women
at the same time. He cannot really focus on any one of them and has
only superficial relationships with all of them. He is all over the
place. Unlike the man who locks in on one woman and makes up his
mind that she is the one and the only woman acceptable to him. And,
once he has won her heart, he decides that there will be no other.
Solid decision-making isn’t only about
deciding. It is about deciding and never looking back. Distractions
might begin to cloud the mind, but they are driven out for fear of
losing one’s focus.
The team that considers losing an option most
likely will not give all. The winners have big signs in their locker
rooms that say: believe.
It is all about driving out any thoughts about
not making it. Believing that you can do it goes a long way in
actually doing it.
Good coaches keep telling their players, “You
can do it.” Smart parents who know some thing about success tell
their children the same thing. They speak to their kids of success,
of making it regardless of the obstacles. They condition their minds
to not accepting defeat. This way, when their children decide, they
remove all other options except success.
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If you have problems about drugs, alcohol and
behavior/attitude call my office at 8206107 or 8251771 or e-mail me
at gvcbuenca@vasia.com or write me at P.O. Box 2099 MCPO, Makati
City.
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