(Part 1)
During our morning walks, we used to discuss about various things. One day, the subject matter of discussion was ‘key factors for success’. Though most of us know the various factors, like hard work, dedication, commitment, focus, etc., it is not an easy task to pinpoint on any one or two key factors.
Then I said, “in my opinion, I would say it is ‘self-confidence’ without which you cannot achieve anything worthwhile.”
“Can you elaborate with some details, or examples?” my friend asked.
“Sure. Self-confidence is the secret ingredient for success, especially, when you are at the game point, or at the critical moment. The winning shot comes with self-confidence. Many a time, it is observed that both the players in the final match are equally talented and capable of winning the match. But in the end, the confident one makes it. And in the same way, lack of confidence is the main reason for failures. I have seen many students could not fair well in the exams even though they are very brilliant. They lose their confidence mainly due to fear of failure, while writing the exams.”
“Then, what about luck?”
“There is no role for luck here. Luck favours those who help themselves. If it is the case of winning a lottery, then I would say it’s luck. Regarding self-confidence, I would like to quote the famous poem of Walter D. Wintle, a poet who lived in the late 19th and early 20th century, which is self-explanatory.
‘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 you think you can’t,
It is almost a cinch you won’t.
If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost;
For out in this world we find
Success begins with a fellow’s will
It’s all in the state of mind.
If you think you’re outclassed, you are;
You’ve got to think high to rise.
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win the prize.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man;
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can!
