Orison Marden was one of the earliest American self-help writers. I am struck by this quote from him:

“Deep within humans dwell those slumbering powers; powers that would astonish them, that they never dreamed of possessing; forces that would revolutionize their lives if aroused and put into action.”

The challenge of extraordinary living is threefold. First, we must recognize and believe that we do have these “slumbering powers” within. Some people live unaware of their own potential, or believe external circumstances completely determine their success or lack of it.

Second, we must identify just what those powers are for each of us. While some of these potentialities are universal, others will be unique to the individual: his or her talents, desires and beliefs.

Third, once those powers have been identified they must be utilized or else they are only latent and of little or no benefit.

What are the compelling internal forces of your life? Have you thought about that lately, and are you using those powers consistently to live an extraordinary life?

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