The Man Who Thinks He Can

If you think you are beaten, you are;

 

If you think you dare not, you don’t.

If you’d like to win, but think you can’t

It’s almost a cinch you won’t

 

If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost

 

For out in the world we find

Success begins with a fellow’s will:

It’s all in hs state of mind

 

If you think you’re outclassed, you are:

 

You’ve go to think high to rise,

You’ve got to be sure of yourself before

You’ll ever win that prize.

 

Life’s battles don’t always go

 

To the stronger or faster man

But sooner or later the man who wins

Is the one who thinks he can.

-Napoleon Hill, (c.)1976

 

The realm of thought is a powerful force in this life. Thoughts become beliefs and beliefs shape the way we live, work ethic, and the impressions we leave those who we come in contact with. It effects how we respond to adversity, deal with success, and move forward from failure.

One of my favorite quotes is “If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.” Some people tend to hear that and see those words as arrogance. Of course, it can certainly be heard that way. However, what I hear is a frame of mind meant to keep a humble individual on track when set backs ensue. No matter how focused we are, adversity is inevitable. It is the force we cannot control. That is why its said that it how we respond to adversity that reveals character.

No matter what your goals are, do not be deterred. Life is not a race against other people. Our personal finish lines are not the same as others. Some of us are sprinters, others are long distance runners, but most of us are marathon runners. To win a marathon takes supreme focus. It is a battle of will with ourselves. But habitual positive thoughts will remain our greatest aid in or quest to become great.