Susan Boyle's Message: Keep At It

So what does all this fanfare about Susan Boyle singing 'I Dreamed a Dream' have to do with you? Perhaps you don't think you have an inner vision or the power and persistence to reach your goals. But here are some ideas that'll help, whether or not you can belt out a heartbreaking ballad about unfulfilled dreams:

Learn about what is truly of value to you. Assess your character strengths and how they've helped you get what you've wanted before. How can you build on those assets now? Enlist your staying power and keep your eye on the goal.

Let your creativity run wild so that you see yourself from a different perspective. The initial step is just to begin the process. Then let your positive experiences provide the incentive to continue. There may be stumbling blocks along the way, but never give up.

Click on the title above to read a story on www.HerMentorCenter.com about Follow an Old Passion - Find a New Path. And tune in for more tips tomorrow.

Susan Boyle and 'I Dreamed a Dream'

Last week we all had a chance to learn a lesson from Susan Boyle when she sang 'I Dreamed a Dream' before judges in the trials of 'Britain has Talent.' What a surreal and thrilling moment for her. And what a wake-up call for the rest of us.

Her 15 minutes of fame aren't over yet with, so far, over 20 million views on YouTube. Why the viral nature of this phenomenon? Of course we're all pretty fed up with the media focus on teen pop stars and desperate for some good news or a heartfelt story. But is it that we're really looking for a role model whose character inspires us to follow our dreams?

In some ways Susan Boyle is everywoman. Her initial appearance onstage, with the negative reaction from the audience and judges, taps into insecurities we all have. Who hasn't felt frumpy or unattractive, unsure of ourselves or at a loss for words? Susan has lived a simple life and didn't expect to be so popular. She has been busy caring for her elderly mother and practicing her music. It makes you wonder, has our society been focused on the wrong things?

Tune in all week as we discuss the values and character strengths that can lead to personal success. And weigh in with your own ideas. In the meantime, click on the title above and read an article about Captain Sullenberger and what makes a hero.