When Judith Kay Westerman was born, on March 24th, 1957, our family was complete. My mother and father were hoping for a girl. My older sister, Sandra, came into the world prematurely in 1952. In those days, there wasn’t the knowledge we have now about how to nurture those born too soon. Our folks never talked about Sandra much, but…

A milestone like crossing age 65 naturally invites introspection. Here are a few of the many mistakes I’ve made and some of the things I got right, along with a list of the wisdom I hope I’ve gained during the ride.

Disney CEO Bob Iger’s Principles are common denominators that impact our ability to succeed. Our own “relentless pursuit of perfection” should bring us back to mindful study and honest self assessment of how closely our own beliefs, and actions, align.

Sharing an orbit with a child with Down syndrome has more than its share of magic moments, those instances where the clouds part and what’s really important reveals itself. When they happen, you can’t help but stop and think about how lucky you are to have her in your life. On Mondays and Wednesdays, I take my granddaughter to therapy…

The biggest impediment to forward progress has nothing to do with education, skill or experience. It’s fear. When we peel away the rationalizations and get people to admit what’s really holding people back It’s this: They were afraid.

In a world of instant Internet feedback, we have become addicted to approval. Beyond acceptance, appreciation and attention, one of an individual’s greatest desires is to be understood. Just as giving is a precursor to receiving, seeking first to understand is essential to being understood. And active listening is the key.

The Win-Win mentality mixes empathy, confidence, sensitivity and bravery to create what Franklin / Covey calls, “that balance between courage and consideration”.

Forward progress happens when we “put first things first”. Deciding what’s important and moving it to the top of your to-do list is the foundation of every productive day.

Those who have benefited from integrating “Beginning with the end in mind” into their daily routines will tell you that this is not an easy process. And it never ends. Like any worthwhile endeavor, it is a muscle that, when continually exercised, gets stronger.

Success habits are enduring ideas to be continually pondered, practiced and sculpted to fit our own unique definition of purpose and passion. And the first habit is this: Be Proactive.