Ask Mark Ward

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Condition your Success.

There is a big difference between a habit and reflex. Habits can be consciously created, while reflexes are something that just happen. For example, when you drive a car, you have to consciously think about each step you take - turning the wheel, stepping on the gas pedal, braking. This is because driving is a habit that must be learned. But when you blink, your eyes automatically close; that's a reflex. You don't have to think about it - it just happens.

One of the best ways to create new habits is to be mindful of what you're doing. Pay attention to each step and make sure that you're doing them correctly. Then, once the habit is ingrained, you can do it without thinking about it. Another way to create habits is through conditioning. When you're accustomed to doing something every day, you'll do it automatically.

Success, by any definition, is a product of conditioning. It requires you to align your thoughts, words, and actions with a specific vision. Naturally, this demands that you know what it is that you are attempting to create. How are you defining "success"? How will you know when you have achieved it?

Once you have clearly defined what success means to you, you must begin to align your thoughts and words with your desires. Let's use a material example. If you want a new home and you continually speak about how you cannot afford one, you are obstructing your own possibility. Be conscious of your words. "I am so excited about the purchase of my new home. It is not yet clear to me how I will manage it, but I am choosing to believe that money making opportunities are on the way!" Take time every day to visualize yourself living in that house. See yourself in it. Feel what it will be like to reside in it. Enjoy it.

Explore your financial options. What would have to happen for you to be able to afford that house? What is the specific amount of additional income or money that will be required? Avoid the temptation to be discouraged; you are merely exploring the wealth of possibilities. Remember, there is no shortage of money or opportunities in the world. The one that is right for you will show up at the perfect time if you are in a state of excited expectancy.

Post pictures of your dream home where you will see it every day. Give thought to what you will be doing in that house--resting in your new bedroom, having friends over for dinner parties, etc.

Begin a gratitude journal, writing at least 5 things for which you are grateful each day. Appreciation is a magnet. You have to want what you have to get what you want.

All of these things in combination will become habits. They are a small example of how you may begin to condition yourself to receive that which you desire. After a while, they will become almost automatic (like brushing your teeth).

Success or sabotage? Only in a state of expectancy are we completely open and receptive to new means and opportunities for bringing our vision to fruition.

Is this going to be an incredible day? What kind of day are you expecting?