Critics are rarely as close as you are to a situation. They do not know all details and cannot understand all that you are thinking. When you see an opportunity that others do not, take a cue from these winners and persevere.

3) Don't automatically dismiss underdog.

Sarava was McPeek's third string horse. After losing two early favorites - one to injury, second when horse's owner moved him to another trainer - he was left with underdog Sarava. It would have been easy to give up dream. Instead, while others ogled expected winner War Emblem and superstar trainer Bob Baffert, McPeek looked for strengths in his own horse and saw what others did not - a winner.

It is easy to look at superstars and reigning champions in our own industries and become discouraged. Instead, look for strengths in your situation and take advantage of opportunities they represent.

4) Know when to make your move.

Jockey Prado deliberately ran fifth, behind War Emblem, through most of race. When favorite choked, weakened from a stumble at gate, Prado was ready. He made his move, riding around War Emblem, and then pushing past others to earn victory.

Strong competitors are not infallible. Look for chinks in armor. Also, do not discount "Murphy's Law", which can strike without prejudice. When an opportunity arises - whether one you created or one presented to you - be ready to make your move.

5) Speak up but stay humble.

During interviews, McPeek pointed out what he had done to win race, but he did not brag. His competitors are still major contenders. He knew that bragging about Belmont win could mean eating crow in a future race.

The same philosophy holds true for our own successes. The situation ebbs and flows. Today's victors may be tomorrow's strugglers. Being humble and likable when you are in spotlight can garner support through future difficulties.

Follow these five lessons from a long shot and I will see you at races!

_____

To learn more about Ken McPeek, visit McPeek Racing Web site, http://www.mcpeekracing.com. As a side note, have a look at "Points of Difference" page for examples of positioning and differentiation.

8. Always keep your area clean and organized. This will help you stay more focused on task at hand. You won't have all your other "jobs" sitting there screaming at you, "Work on me, no work on me, just take a peek, I need some attention!"

9. Automate, Automate, Automate! Making your job easier will make life in general better for you.

10. Give yourself a reward for all your hard work.

Now what about those mornings when you can't find that certain lingerie (underclothes for men)? You know; that favorite slip that fits just right, or only black camisole you have to wear under blouse you want to wear.

Well what are you doing right now? Reading this right? Well, stop right now and go organize those drawers! Let me know how it went. ***** The Organizing Wizard, Janet L. Hall, is a Professional Organizer, Certified Pyramid Feng Shui Practitioner, Speaker, and Author. She is owner of OverHall Consulting and Organizing By Phone. Subscribe to her FREE organizing newsletter at http://www.overhall.com/newsletter.htm or visit her web site at http://www.overhall.com

Copyright Ó 2002 by OverHall Consulting P.O. Box 263, Port Republic, MD 20676 All Rights Reserved. Permission is granted to reproduce, copy, or distribute so long as article is kept intact, this copyright notice and full information about contacting author is attached.