Whenever I feel I have daunting tasks ahead, and the wind is whistling out of my sails, I stop for a moment to consider what Ive accomplished to date.

It inspires me, because invariably, Ive overcome greater challenges than those that lie ahead.

For instance, Im gradually working on getting into better shape, and my goals are really very modest, because Im close to achieving them.

Yet there is a very real tendency to slow down, to see them as more challenging than they are.

To put them into perspective, Ill recall a time when I was much heavier and less muscular, and much more behind the 8-ball. I follow that thought with the memory of the significant conditioning program that I undertook to turn things around.

Now, THAT was a challenge, I remind myself. Comparatively, Ive come so far along the right path that with a baby step or two, Ill be at the finishing line.

I use the same process in dealing with business goals and setbacks, recalling times when I have emerged from slumps and accomplished a zillion really crucial things in record time.

Try this, the next time the mountain in front of you seems ominously steep. A quick glance backward can put it into the proper perspective!