Others observe our behavior, and at times object to what they think we are doing. It is important for each of us to think and understand what we are doing, and why we are doing it.

My favorite slogan is "As you think, so you go." Active thinking is the key. When actively thinking, I am aware of my thoughts, understand what I am thinking, and focused on what I'm doing. I am engaged and in control. What about you?

Others may object to what you are doing, but your desire, drive and understanding can overcome these objections. Thinking actively, trusting what you believe, and doing what is necessary and important are the ingredients for success and satisfaction.

Others do not have your understanding, may fear your behavior or think you are doomed to fail. Their influence or evaluation can be debilitating. You have to trust your thoughts and understanding, especially if you have evaluated the situation.

If you are reacting and have not taken time to understand your direction, then it is up to you to consider the objections of others. Revisit your understanding and plan of action. It is a gift to have others evaluate, but it can be a curse if their evaluations are based on their fears and unwillingness to move forward. Be wise and be an active thinker.

In younger years, it is common practice for parents and others to protect their children. However, as human beings, children are not born to be protected all of their lives.

Reaching young adulthood, it is not uncommon to be challenged to "be what we want to be." One basic challenge is to build lives that are responsible and productive. This challenge encompasses personal thoughts, hopes and desires. Once in play, they involve choices and positive implementation of these choices.

Leaving the safety of family, surviving on our own and striving for a place in this world are among our greatest life challenges. We live these challenges fighting objections of others, making life-changing decisions, battling for survival and enjoying successful movement forward.

Negatives and positives await our efforts, as all challenge us to grow and develop. Overcoming objections and challenges leads to productivity and pride by what we accomplish.

Active thinking is a driving force that guides behavior, and a gift provided humans who choose wisely. Wishing and hoping for things to happen is like a teardrop in the ocean. It adds to the supply, but is minimally productive. Active thinking is the fuel for understanding what can be done.

Creative options provide alternatives to blockages and opens doors to opportunities. It is through active thinking that accomplishments reach their greatest potential. Choose wisely, work diligently, and results will be your reward.

This is a perfect description of life's journey and what must be done to get the most out of it. What is lost in the message is the thought of following what we can do during those times we say "I can't."

When you say or think "I can't," adjust your thoughts to what you can do with what you have at the moment. This builds options, moves you forward, and earns opportunities to harvest at the next barrier.

Life goes on in a progressive, positive manner and development continues with courage, confidence and encouragement. All of this is done with the support of loved ones — especially those who were instrumental raising you, helping you to become the person you are today.

Use their love and support to infuse energy as you "plunge into it." The more you use this energy, the more of it you will have available. Use it or lose it is another way of saying you have a choice. We've all been blessed with a brain a mind of our own. Use it wisely, and that gift will be there to guide you and light your way.

We are given the ability to choose. Some use it, while others lose it. Most importantly, we have a choice. Choosing wisely takes wisdom, active thinking and a willingness to manage one's self to the best of his/her abilities.

Time is also a factor. In reality, we all have exactly 24 hours in each day. How we choose to use those 24 hours is what makes us unique. As we grow, days and weeks seem to fly by, and at other times, appear to drag on forever.

The question for both of these examples is "How am I choosing to use my time?" Use it wisely because you cannot reuse the second that has passed.