Determination is a positive emotional feeling that involves persevering towards a difficult goal in spite of obstacles. Determination occurs prior to goal attainment and serves to motivate behavior that will help achieve one's goal.

Oh yes, DETERMINATION! That resolute feeling you have when you decide you are going to do something and nothing...nothing is going to get in your way or deter you from what you have set out to do.

I have a small story to tell you about determination.

One day a few years ago my mother and I were out shopping as only she loved to do. We went into this showroom type place and found it had many different vendors inside.

There was this gold cat..she was sitting there staring at me looking all magnificent and regal.

I knew in my gut right then and there I had to have this cat. I picked her up and looked around for the owner of this particular display but there was no one around.

I carried that cat all through the shops and asked about the vendor.

They just kept telling me she would not be in today. I just kept carrying this cat all over this huge warehouse. I was Determined I would not put this cat down until someone could give me the answer I wanted.

I did not care the vendor was not there I was going home with this cat and I would not be deterred. Finally one of the vendors said he would try to call and reach her.

I believe that the cat belonged with me and I think the vendor saw the determination in my eyes and demeanor. Well, the story does have a happy ending...vendor reached..price agreed on and the cat went home with me.

As I was recalling this story I had an idea! If I took that determination into every project I did for my business oh what a difference it would make.

The cat? She is still with me today and as of today has become my touchstone to set my determination each and every day.