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Some years ago I had an eye-opening experience when a new acquaintance asked me a simple question: "How do you define success?" It caught me totally off-guard and I was embarrassed when I struggled to answer.

She had just seen my website showing off my accomplishments, honors and award-winning work which clearly branded me as a successful guy. Yet, apparently, I wasn't sounding like one. Without realizing it I must have been doing a lot of grumbling because it was my grumbling that prompted her to ask me that question. It felt like a cold glass of water thrown in my face.

As we parted ways and I headed back to my apartment I couldn't get the experience out of my head. Why did I struggle trying to answer that question? Most importantly, if I wasn't clear about what success was, then how could I ever expect to achieve it? The second I got back I sat down at my computer and began some serious soul searching. I needed to come up with an answer to that question. And, 3-hours later, I had this:                                               


      <> To have no regrets.

      <> To have enthusiasm when I wake up and peace of mind when I go to sleep.

      <> To have true friends.

      <> To make the most of my talent and intellect.

      <> To have love, fun, and passion in my life.

      <> To use my unique gifts in a way that makes a positive difference in peoples' lives.

      <> To have the financial freedom, trust, and ability to follow my own path.

      <> To be healthy in body, mind and spirit.

      <> To face my fears and take advantage of my opportunities.

      <> To bridge the gap between who I am and what I do.

      <> To base my decisions on Truth vs. Fear or Guilt.

      <> To let go of past hurts and learn from mistakes.

      <> To inspire and motivate others.

      <> To make people laugh, including myself.

      <> To live life with the understanding that "getting there" isn't half the fun, it's most of it.

      <> To view death not as a scary Grim Reaper, but as a welcomed sleep
           after a very long, satisfying, day.



Interestingly, I never saw the woman again. Perhaps I didn't need to. By asking me the question she'd given me a gift, and perhaps that was the purpose of our meeting.

So now, in turn, I invite you to answer that question. And, if this inspires you to do that then share it with someone else who might benefit from reading it.


John's presentation.

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