To be successful, we need to be both optimistic and realistic. Whenever we strive to achieve something difficult, we need to be optimistic about our prospects for getting to that thing. But at the same time, we also need to be realistic. We need to remind ourselves that no one hits the bullseye in their first attempt. Life often requires us to fall, rise, fall, rise and repeat this sequence many times till we can run. The Bhagavad Gita in its 18 chapters states that success requires cheshta, that is endeavor – that means repeated trying. By having both optimism and realism, we all can progress toward making ourselves better and achieving better things in life.

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18.48 Every endeavor is covered by some fault, just as fire is covered by smoke. Therefore one should not give up the work born of his nature, O son of Kuntī, even if such work is full of fault.