Last week, I was enjoying a delicious lunch at one of Riverside's finest restaurants with a client. There was the usual quesions, laughter, and momentary pauses. In the midst of our lighthearted conversation, she blurted out, "How do you always manage to get what you want in your life?" And, she didn't stop there. A little louder, she proclaimed, "Why does it all come to you so easily?!?"

I sat for a moment stunned and a bit flabergasted (like most of the other patrons who were staring at us) because most of my life has not been easy. Sure, there have been magical moments and unexpected happenings but easy would never be a word I chose to describe the events that occured and got me to where I am today.

After a few minutes, I realized she wasn't angry at me but rather looking for some formula that would help her duplicate my success. I shared with her that the process was simple, but certainly not easy. Gurus like Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, Napolean Hill, and Wallace Wattles used three words - ask, believe, and succeed! Simple, but not easy.

This is what I'm referring to:

1. Clearly and specifically identify what you want.
2. Believe that what you want is available to you. Don't worry about how, when, where, or why. Just believe.
3. Ask for what you want every chance you get.
4. Give thanks for what you want in advance. Know it is on its way. Gratitude will draw it closer.
5. Receive openly and willingly with the understanding that it is yours. Expect it.

Disclaimer: Pay attention to where you are blocking your blessings. People unintentionally shut off the flow of good coming into their life every day. Always allow good to enter in whether it be in the form of compliments, buying you lunch, or providing you with discounted good/services.

Incidentally, she paid for lunch and gave me a compliment. I willingly and graciously accepted both.

Ask and you shall indeed receive!