The Meaning of Belief

​“Our belief at the beginning of any undertaking is the one thing that will ensure it’s successful conclusion.”

That’s a paraphrase of the words uttered by William James, a famous psychologist of the 19th century. Since then, cultures worldwide have based their societies and ethics on those words.

That's not to say that because we believe in something that it guarantees success. There are no guarantees. But whatever chance we have if we believe; we've none if we don't.

Belief fuels the energy of the mind.

When people set a goal, the belief in the eventual outcome guides their thinking, which influences the feeling, which determines the force and the effects of what ever action is taken.

This concept of belief is a deeply personal thing. 

This is one of the reasons why I advise people at the outset of any programme to keep their aims to themselves. At the beginning of a new project, the goal can seem remote, and the belief can be fragile.

 But when action is taken, the goal begins to clarify, and the belief begins to strengthen. This why  people should not only to keep their goals to themselves, but also to revisit them daily, make what adjustments or modifications they see, fit, and familiarise themselves, totally, with what they want to achieve, and what it means to their lives.

 Sometimes this can mean that a goal, because it is studied more closely, changes.

 This is a good thing, as it means that the aspirant will have realistically studied his goal, considered the difficulties, calculated the odds, and decided to pursue the end. And no matter how far-fetched the goal may seem to anyone else, he or she will be convinced of its feasibility. But that feasibility needs to be protected and nourished. 

None, or very few, will be able to see what you see.

This is why the term vision is used when people ignite their lives with the sense of purpose that comes from their own imagination. It is the chance in their lives to turn a dream,  an imaginary thing, into reality.
When it happens, the person is hailed as a Visionary.
If it fails, the person can be dismissed as a dreamer. 

Belief, resilience, persistence and courage are often the characteristics more necessary than talent, or a stroke of genius, or academic qualification. (See the recent post on 'persistence'.)
The study, thinking about, the personal involvement with the possible attainment of that goal is the driving force behind every action. Every thought, every word connected with the objective will assume significance.

So, never be afraid to question your beliefs, and if, on questioning, you still believe in them, pour your heart and soul into them and watch them flourish. 

And to hell with the naysayers.