Believe and you will achieve

I'm not sure where that line comes from, but that is the theme of my contribution to the Runner's Lounge Take it and Run Thursday. The theme for this week is running quotes and sayings.

Over the last few years, I have really become a believer in the power of believing that I can accomplish something great. Not just in running, but in life as well. Your attitude and the way you view yourself and approach your goals is a strong determining factor in your success.

I've been receiving the Runner's World Quote of the Day emails for a year or two now, and I love it. It's so cool to open my email and read something positive and inspirational. Occasionally, I "star" and email that I especially like. Coincidentally (?), all but two have been along the lines of believing in what you are capable of. I've assembled here some of my favorites.

"Nothing splendid has ever been achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside them was superior to circumstance."
-Bruce Barton

"Thus I urge you to go on to your greatness if you believe it is in you. Think deeply and separate what you wish from what you are prepared to do."
-Percy Cerutty

"Success is a state of mind. If you want success, start thinking of yourself as a success."
-Dr. Joyce Brothers

"Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it."
-Lou Holtz

"I've always taken the philosophy that you have to dream a little in this sport. If you stay in your comfort zone, you're not going to do anything special."
-Deena Kastor

"On Saturday night, I said to myself, 'Are you ready to deal with a victory?' I decided I was."
-Joan Benoit on her thoughts prior to the 1984 Olympic Marathon

"A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory."
-Arthur Golden

"Anything is possible, but you have to believe and you have to fight."
-Lance Armstrong

"Don't listen to negative influences. Believe in yourself, and show others what you can do. Only "you" can find your potential."
-Marla Runyan

"Training is principally an act of faith. The athlete must believe in its efficacy: he must believe that through training he will become fitter and stronger."
-Franz Stampfl

"Obstacles are those frightening things that become visible when we take our eyes off our goals."
-Henry Ford