Babies and young children begin exploration without hesitation.  Not being conditioned to failure or success as well as harm or disappointment, they boldly approach their new horizons with an inquisitive nature.  

They find that some things are hot and unique-looking objects can stick you.  They also discover that certain objects should not go in their mouths and that tears often bring attention from others who strive to help the tears subside.  All in all, it is an exciting new world of learning, adventure, and practical application of effort. 

In keeping with that theme, what would you be able to accomplish if you did not have to fear failure or some manner of criticism or outright conflict?  How greater an impact would you have on or with your family, your friends, your career, your community, and your overall influence in society at large if you boldly moved toward those uncertainties with heightened assurance of success? The essence of accomplishment, of learning, of experiencing life in its pinnacle of strength, is predicated on the courage to control your inner caution that prevents you from becoming the best you can be. 

There are three (3) key demands you must master to achieve becoming the best, most courageous you possible.  First, you must utilize the Cortes Principle. Hernan Cortes was a Spanish explorer who was dispatched to settle the New World by the king of Spain in the early 1500’s.  After initially arriving in Cuba, he made his way to Mexico where he set about the task of defeating Aztec rule and establishing Spanish authority.  To effectively accomplish this task, he had to make sure that his men were fully committed to the effort.  He decided to burn the ships which brought him and his party to Mexico.  In eliminating the only method of escape, each man would therefore be forced to comply.  His strategy while bold and at times uncomfortable, worked and Spanish influence forever changed the land. 

To master that inner caution which too often restricts your ability to become the best you possible, there must be an unwavering  complete commitment to change.  All “lifelines” of prior status or position must be eliminated and your entire focus must be directed to the new you.  Only then will you have the mental awareness of the serious nature of the new you and thus be committed to an acceptable “survival” method that secures your changed path. There can be no turning back.  Once committed, it is in essence succeed or you are subjected to forever fail. 

Second,  you must have a viable plan.  Cortes once having his expedition in place, decided upon a bold plan to ensure his success.  He became allies with some of the natives who were receptive to his offers. With those who weren’t in agreement to accept his friendship, he waged war using his vast arsenal of weapons, military skills,  as well as the services of his newfound allies.  In the end, even after angering some in the powerful Spanish military, Cortes was able to capture the Aztec king and conquer the land. 

To beat the odds and become the best “you” possible, demands you have a plan.  You must have clear vision, an undeniable mission and fully understand what is required for success. When this foundational demand is complete, you must then focus on the precise steps to be taken so that the transformation can be made.   In doing so you are better able to solidify your ultimate goals and more effectively “sail” toward success. 

Finally, you must never lose faith in yourself.  Cortes always believed in himself and his abilities to get things done.  His life of accomplishments proves that to be a fact. Though trials followed him after his many adventures, he never expressed doubt in his desires or ability to accomplish goals.  Confidence in yourself, while not the only trait of value necessary for a successful expedition, is vital if you are to build a foundation strong enough to support your desired structure of growth and achievement. 

President Calvin Coolidge once said, “Faith is the great motive power, and no man realizes his full possibilities unless he has the deep conviction that life is eternally important and that his work well done is part of an unending plan.”  When you possess that deep belief, without question, that your goals, aspirations, and ultimate work will bring forth the results which most often satisfy a goal and has a positive impact on others, only lack of action can stop you from accomplishing that end. 

Fear is a strange competitor. It presents to you an abundance of false evidence appearing real.  It can paralyze your demeanor and sabotage your dreams.  However, when you stand strong, face adversity, and overcome the naysayers, you can and will find a more vibrant pathway to guide your progress. Set your course to accomplishment and become all you can be.  Pull from within yourself, the essence of who you are and experience the best that life can offer.