Let Go and Find Your Heart's Desire
by Joanna Lindenbaum, Volunteer since 2006

In 1921, Stanford University studied children with genius level IQs and found that intelligence was not the most vital element for success. Self-confidence, perseverance, and an inclination to set goals were. In other words, simply acknowledging and defining what we want to accomplish was more important to success than intelligence.

Yet sometimes goals are difficult to attain, or we don't feel satisfied once we accomplish them, because goals are often things we have to accomplish, instead of things we want to get done. If we could shift our ideas of goals from obligations into wishes with limitless possibilities, we would be inspired and have a much better chance for achievement.

Often our dread at not succeeding prevents us from even recognizing what we really want. To dream up new and exciting possibilities, set aside any fears and ask what your heart truly desires. If you thought you could accomplish anything, what would you do? Let go of the nay-saying voice inside of you and dream big. Then re-adjust your wish so that it is realistic with the resources you have. In the end, you'll have a goal that's not only worth pursuing, but also satisfying once you achieve it.