“Successful people are decisive people. When opportunities come their way, they evaluate them carefully, make a decision, and take appropriate action. They know that indecision wastes time that could be spent on more productive tasks. They also avoid unnecessary risks by implementing their decisions gradually. They don’t attempt to make every decision at the beginning. Each action is contingent upon the success of the one that preceded it. Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s wisest men, is said to have used a simple method to make difficult decisions. He drew a line down the center of a sheet of paper, and on one side he listed the “pros” of the decision; on the other, he listed the “cons.” In addition to simplifying the decision-making process, the list also served as a graphic illustration of the advantages and disadvantages of any decision, regardless of its complexity. The impact of the decision could then be quickly and easily assessed.”
— Napoleon Hill
“Although it is always better to live with conviction and enthusiasm, some days it is better just to go through the motions than to do nothing. Smile even when you feel grumpy. Meditate or Pray even when you have nothing to say to God. Cook a healthy meal even when you are tired. Walk or exercise even when the thought doesn’t excite you.”
— Jonathan Lockwood Huie
“Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act.”
— Leonard Cohen
“Repeat anything often enough and it will start to become you.”
— Tom Hopkins
“A smile that begins as an effort and a pretense quickly grows to become genuine, and given time, a habit of happiness.”
— Jonathan Lockwood Huie
“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.”
— Thich Nhat Hanh
“If you expect others to have confidence in you, you must conduct yourself in a way that inspires trust. Being so cautious that you never try anything new will damage your credibility just as much as will throwing all caution to the winds and trying any idea that comes along without thinking it through. (Most people equate any kind of extreme behavior with poor judgment.) But don’t fall victim to “analysis paralysis.” Learn to separate facts from opinions and make sure your decisions — and your subsequent actions — are based on reliable information. Then take action!”
— Napoleon Hill