Most highly-successfully people change profoundly over the course of their lives, endlessly developing and honing the qualities that permit them to first succeed and then to hold on to that success.

To successfully undergo significant, meaningful change you must first overcome three obstacles.

1. You must believe, or come to believe, that change is possible and that you can direct and create the change you desire. Otherwise you will never attempt or attempt with sufficient passion and persistence to persevere.

2. You must be willing to observe and evaluate yourself objectively, solicit coaching, and direct, honest feedback. This requires a stable and secure self-concept. Many egos are too fragile to withstand or respond effectively to frank or candid comments. Often ego defense mechanisms kick in and we go effectively deaf.

3. You must have a deep desire, a burning drive, a pulsating passion, a glorious goal, a magnificent motivation. Without that depth of ardor, that fervor, most people lack the energy needed to do the hard work of creating profound change.

Closing quotes:

“He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery.” — Harold Wilson

“It is not necessary to change. Survival is not mandatory.” — W. Edwards Deming

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” — Victor Frankl

“When you are through changing, you are through.” — Bruce Barton