“They told me it is too high, too far, too steep, too rocky, and too difficult, but it’s my mountain. I will climb it.” by Jim Rohn. These words set the stage for an exploration of what it truly means to tackle life’s challenges. The idea of climbing a mountain—your mountain—is not only a metaphor for ambition but a call to action rooted in decision, determination, and focus. Let’s consider these concepts and see how they come together for us to overcome obstacles.

The Power of Decision: Declaring “I Will”

The first and perhaps most pivotal step in attacking a challenge is making a decision. Not a flippant “maybe” or “I’ll try,” but a firm declaration: “I will.” This simple yet profound act of commitment sets the tone for everything that follows. In July 2022, Idecided to start live streaming on YouTube—a completely new venture . I had no experience, no roadmap, and no guarantees. What I had was resolve.

Why does this matter? Because decision-making is the foundation of action. Without it, we drift, waiting for the “right time” or perfect conditions. My story highlights how making a decision forces us to take the first step, even when we don’t have all the answers. For me, that meant setting up a channel, brainstorming topics, and even learning new software like Ecamm Live.

But here’s the kicker: decision-making isn’t about knowing all the steps ahead. It’s about committing to figure them out as you go. This challenges the conventional wisdom that you need to “be ready” before you start. In reality, readiness often comes after you begin.

Determination: The Glue That Holds It All Together

Making a decision is one thing. Sticking to it when the going gets tough is another. Determination is the force that keeping moving forward despite numerous challenges. Candidly I admit to a history of starting and not finishing projects. But this time was different. Why? Because I was determined to follow through.

Determination matters because it bridges the gap between intention and execution. It’s easy to start something when motivation is high, but what happens when enthusiasm wanes? My journey illustrates how determination isn’t about avoiding difficulties—it’s about pushing through them. I launched my live streams despite technical hiccups, lack of equipment, and self-doubt. My early shows were, “rough” and “pitiful,” but I kept going.

Interestingly, determination also invites us to reframe failure. My past unfinished projects are not wasted efforts but preparation. Each stumble taught me something valuable, equipping me for the challenges I face today. This perspective challenges the notion that failure is the opposite of success. Instead, it becomes a stepping stone.

Focus: Turning Internal Resolve Into External Action

Focus is the third pillar of my experience , and it’s the hardest to master. Focus is an internal force, something that must come from within. “If it was external, I’d do what I’d done before. I would stop.” This insight is profound because it shifts the responsibility from external circumstances to internal resolve.

Why is focus so critical? Because it dictates where your energy goes. Focus became a guiding principle for preparing each live stream. From writing show titles and descriptions to crafting outlines and practicing delivery, every step requires being intentional. I even had to decide what lessons and trials to share to make each show better than the last.

Focus also required I narrow my show scope. I learned to keep shows centered on specific topic, resisting the temptation to cover too much at once. This lesson applies far beyond live streaming. In a world full of distractions, focus is the answer to being overwhelm. It’s about doing less and doing it well.

Connecting the Dots: Decision, Determination, and Focus

These three elements—decision, determination, and focus—don’t exist in isolation. They feed into each other, creating a cycle of growth. A decision sparks action. Determination sustains it. Focus refines it. Together, they form a powerful framework for tackling any challenge.

My journey shows a larger pattern: success isn’t about having all the resources or being the most polished. It’s about showing up, learning from failures, and staying committed. To show up, learn and stay committed, requires preparation. Each live stream is not just an event; it is a combination of lessons learned, from past projects and from the process itself.

What’s Next? Implications for the Future

Looking ahead, the principles of decision, determination, and focus have far-reaching implications. They apply not just to personal goals but to leadership, education, and even community building. Imagine what could happen if more people embraced this mindset. Projects would get finished. Ideas would turn into actions. Communities would thrive.

However, it’s important to acknowledge limitations. Not every mountain is worth climbing. Sometimes, the wisest decision is to pivot or let go.

Context matters.

Strategic Principles for Your Journey

So how can you apply these insights to your own life? Here are a few strategic takeaways:

Make a Clear Decision: Don’t waffle. Decide what you want and declare it boldly.

Commit to the Process: Understand that determination is about showing up, even when it’s hard.

Focus on What Matters: Eliminate distractions and zero in on the actions that move the needle.

Learn From Failure: Treat setbacks as opportunities to grow, not reasons to quit.

The Bigger Picture: What’s Your Mountain?

Ultimately, my story is not about live streaming. It is about the universal challenge of climbing your mountain—whatever that may be. The question is, will you make the decision, stay determined, and focus long enough to reach the top? The tools are simple, but the journey is yours to take. What is your mountain, and are you ready to climb it?

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