4. Ideas, goals and dreams have a shelf life. The man in the fable took years traveling the different roads, forgetting that his fiance was waiting for him to arrive to get married. After years passed, she stopped waiting and ended up marrying another. Author, John L. Mason said, "Ideas have a shelf life; that's why we must act before the expiration date." Getting started on any new project is exciting because it's new. Persevering through the months ahead require holding on to the why of doing it and involving all of your senses to envision the victory now. Imagine how you will feel one year from now when you return for your annual physical and the receptionist does a double take when you sign in at the desk. Hear the accolades from your primary physician as he reviews your chart and compliments you on the progress you've made. Do you carry your head a little higher? Do you stand a little taller? Of course you do! "To everything there is a time and season under the sun." Seize your time today. Know what you want and stay focused on it.

5. The achievement of your goal affects other people. The man in the fable did not consider the feelings or the impact his delay would have on his fiance. Because he did not take her dreams and desire for their relationship into account while on his journey, he missed the opportunity to receive the joy of seeing her smiling face after hours and days of anticipation of the life they had planned together. Your success will affect those in your sphere of influence. People are watching you. More importantly, people want you to succeed. You become their example of what is possible and their encouragement to take similar steps too! Know what you want and stay focused on it.

6. The results of your efforts will produce joy or disappointment. The man in the fable realized how much he lost by not persevering to attain his goal. It left him alone, poor and friendless. What joy are you delaying by not persevering with your goal? What dream are you deferring by taking another route? Count the cost. Is the price worth surrendering what you carry in your heart? Author, H. Besser, in his book, "Perseverance: How To Develop It" writes, "Those who cannot persevere along one single line that will guide them to one particular goal are all like this man." Know what you want and stay focused on it.