It takes time and perseverance to find work and life of your dreams. Here are some characteristics to cultivate that will support you:

Vision -- great clarity about what you want. Describe your vision in detail and visualize yourself in your new condition. The more you do this, more possible, even probable, it seems that you will get there.

Strong intention -- determination to get what you want. Pursue your goals when you are thinking, writing, talking, exploring, reading and being, as well as in your actions. Be resolute that you will achieve your objectives. Stay focused and don't let anything or anyone stand in your way.

Unwavering belief -- a belief so strong that it stands up against challenges. Other people, sometimes believing they are being helpful, try to persuade us to be realistic, meaning that we shouldn't aim too high. Successful people keep their goals high and their expectations inline. People may tell us we are being a dreamer. Successful people are practical dreamers. They have dreams, and they figure out how to make them come true.

Action approach -- know what you need to do and do it. If a person wants to drive a car, he gets behind wheel. To dance, he moves his feet to rhythm. To find a new job, career or better skills, he researches his options, decides on a plan and implements it. Everything requires movement. Moves toward your goals.

Focus -- stay on course. Don't stop on way or get sidetracked by fear or myriad other things that hold one back. Even best get waylaid now and then, but those who are sure of path they are on don't let themselves procrastinate for long. They just put themselves on fast forward and fly.

Faith -- truly believe you will get it. Know it is just a matter of time. If things don't move as fast as you would like, if something goes wrong, if you get unavoidably sidetracked, it doesn't have a permanent effect. When you fall off horse, simply get right back on.

(c) 2001, Gloria Dunn, all rights reserved.

* Don't have plans for New Year's Eve? Make some now, whether to see a show, a play, or get together with friends. Or designate New Year's Eve as time to reflect over past year and dream about next year.

* Feel down or disconnected? Do something for someone else. Volunteer, donate money, contribute or serve in some way. Get involved in group activities.

* Feel a lack of spiritual connection to holidays? Go back to your roots in some way - go to church, light candles, pray, write a gratitude list, meditate, etc.

* Not having fun? Play and be creative. Do something childlike, even if you don't feel like it, even if you think it's silly, even if you don't have time or don't want to bother. Better yet, play with a child. You will find it deeply satisfying.

* Wishing you were in a relationship? Or, wishing your relationship was better? Do a grand scale gratitude list for what you do have and what is working in your life. It won't fix relationship situation, but it will fix your attitude.

Put yourself in holiday spirit and enjoy holidays!

Your Relationship Coach, Rinatta Paries www.WhatItTakes.com

(c) Rinatta Paries, 1998-2001. Do you know what it takes to be happy and fulfilled in your relationships? Relationship Coach Rinatta Paries can teach you skills and techniques to attract and sustain long-term, healthy partnerships. Visit www.WhatItTakes.com where you'll find quizzes, classes, advice and a free weekly ezine. Become a "true love magnet(tm)!