Have you ever attended a kid’s party where they had a piñata? They line the children up by age, blindfold them, spin them around, hand them a stick, and let them swing wildly at the paper mache animal full of candy. After a few tries, the next child is allowed a turn. Every so often, a child connects with a “thump,” the excitement increases for a few moments as all the children await the downpour of candy. But when nothing happens, the next child is allowed a turn until everyone has had a chance. If the piñata shows no signs of breakage, the children lose interest. The more times they swing with no visible results, the more disheartened they become. Soon, many of the kids move from the area and start seeking other activities of interest. Finally, the piñata bursts open at some point, spilling candy all over the ground. All the children come running back to reap the rewards of the lucky person who broke through.
Attaining a worthwhile goal is a very similar process. Many people start to achieve their big goal or dream, “starry-eyed” with anticipation of wealth or success. They swing at their version of the piñata with great zeal and enthusiasm. But after a few tries, they begin to become disheartened. They lack the focus and desire to keep “beating on their piñata.” But worthwhile goal attainment is NOT easy. It’s the reason why so very few people attain the goals they desire. The piñata, while colorful and attractive to the children, is assembled with glue and cardboard, making it challenging to break initially. It must be broken down over time by consecutive blows. Worthwhile goals also require similar perseverance. No one knows precisely when they will attain it. But by swinging at it every day, relentlessly, missing on one attempt but connecting on the next. Eventually, your piñata will burst, and you will have attained your goal! Many people will give up and move on long before they reach that point. They may even try to discourage you by saying, “Are you still swinging at that piñata?” But SOMEONE, eventually, will attain that goal and reap the reward. Why shouldn’t it be you?
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