At this time of year, many of us reflect upon our accomplishments and set goals for the New Year. In racing, as in other of life's endeavors, I believe we are the masters of our destiny, and if we are open to learning from our own experiences and those of others, we too may reach our highest aspirations.

In my own life, I have sought the advice of successful people, both through personal contact, through web sites such as Thunder Valley, and through books which help us understand how others have achieved their goals. In my search for resources, I came across a book written by Jack Canfield and his partner Mark Victor Hansen entitled, Dare to Win. Many of you may be familiar with this duo from their very successful book series, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and its many offspring. Through these books they have provided thousands of folks with inspiration to go out and achieve life's finest offerings, while learning to value the human experience in all of its nuances.

In spite of its title, Dare to Win won't give you a formula for car set up, racing strategy, or even mention racing. However, the authors prod and stimulate you to establish personal commitment and goals, focus your energy, and they encourage each of us to remove the roadblocks to our success. For those of you who do not have access to the book, here are a few of the guiding principles:

• Expand your imagination about what's possible
• Stop making excuses (Fear of failure assures failure)
• Believe in yourself; You are your own greatest asset
• Visualize your success; See yourself accomplishing your dreams
• Avoid negative people (Negativity breeds negativity)
• Don't expect others to make your dreams happen; You Make it Happen!
• Follow your heart; Do what you love! (Trust your instincts; Listen to your inner voice)

As you look forward to a new year of racing, I would encourage each of you to take a small, personal journey of discovery. For each of us I suspect we've all heard the naysayers at one time or another when we speak of a racing career. "Give it up, you're wasting your time, money, and effort!" or "Why are you bothering; no one really does this for a living!" Well my friend, Archimedes, Henry Ford, Steve Jobs, Steven Spielberg, Lyn St. James, and Shirley Muldowney all heard those same voices. Instead of listening, they followed their hearts to their dreams. The winning spirit resides in each of us. Find yours, nurture it, and live your dreams.

Best wishes for a joyous New Year!