Microsoft Word who will cry when u die doc

83. 
Choose Worthy Opponents  
I read recently that after Olympic athletes return home from the games, some of them suffer from what 
psychologists call POD (Post – Olympic Depression). After being in the world’s spotlight and training for years 
to excel in competition, the athletes who suffer form this affliction fall into a state of depression once they get 
back to their daily lives. It seems that having achieved the pinnacle of success, there is no higher target for them 
to aim for and so life loses its meaning. A similar phenomenon was experienced by the Apollo astronauts who 
walked on the moon. After achieving this, they grew dejected at the realization that few things in life could 
match the excitement of traveling into space. 
 
To maintain a healthy level of optimism and passion for life, you must keep on setting higher and higher 
goals. On attaining one goal, whether it is a career goal or a personal one, it is essential that you quickly set the 
next one. I call the process of setting progressively bigger, more engaging goals “choosing worthy opponents.” 
When I was practicing law, I spent much of my time in courtrooms, representing the interests of my clients. 
Over the years that I argued these causes, I always found I performed best when I appeared against my toughest 
opponents. Those bright, highly prepared and exceptionally focused litigators forced me to get to the core issue 
before the judge and deliver my argument succinctly and effectively. The worthiest opponents compelled me to 
reach deep within myself and do even better than I had previously. 
 
In the same way, selecting a steady stream of compelling goals will liberate the fullness of your talents. 
Remember, diamonds are created through steady pressure. So make certain your goals are worthy of you. Make 
sure they are the kind of challenges that will force you to reach into your heart and bring out the best within 
you, helping you grow in the process. In the personal coaching sessions I conduct around the country, many of 
the participants already have achieved what I would consider success in both their careers and lives. They are 
highly respected, influential and they enjoy what they do while leading balanced and fulfilling personal lives. 
Yet they joining my programs because they know deep down that they can be more and that life holds greater 
rewards in store for them. They understand that in order to truly manifest their human potential and leave a 
legacy that lasts, they must keep raising the bar and holding themselves to a higher standard. And because of 
that attitude of constant improvement, life does send greater blessings their way. 
 
 
 
 
 

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