Perhaps the greater question is, why are you here? The philosophical issue of man s existence on this planet comes to mind. We are here for a reason. Think about it. You apparently have one crack at life and a chance to do something memorable. That is, unless you think that watching television eight hours a days is more important than making a contribution to humanity. Because I am somewhat psychic, I already hear you whining that you are too poor, too stupid or some other lame excuse to really make a difference. Fine, let s consider what I m actually asking you to do.

It s not a matter of inventing a new product or solving life s

riddles. It could be as basic as raising a family where each child becomes the best they can. Or volunteering to help the community in some benevolent manner. You might be a mentor or role model to someone who has taken the wrong path in their life. Being a dependable friend or relative can also contribute to society. These are things that anyone can offer and take little or no money; only some time and commitment. But, to those of you who love New Year s resolutions, why not take a bigger leap of faith? Try something more demanding and impacting.

Have you ever dreamed of having your own business? If not just to make more money, than to be

your own boss and control your own potential. Or maybe you have an idea for a new invention that would benefit the masses. You may occasionally think about these ideas but realize; (a) they are too expensive, (b) they would require too much time, (c) you are not smart enough to pull it off, (d) you are too lazy to follow through, or (e) you probably have a very small chance of success. So instead, you continue to languish in front of the TV munching on a bag of chips and watch the world pass you by. Shame on you.

Did I mention that you are only on this planet for a lifetime, whatever that may be? When or what

other opportunity will you have to fulfill your dreams? Who is going to come by your house one day and say, I ll do all the work, finance your project, and make it happen, because they are your guardian angel? Rather than buy that lottery ticket or daydream about what might-have-been, why not really do something about it?

The number one New Year s resolution is to lose weight. In modern times, it s been that way for decades. Every January, the weight-loss clinics and fitness clubs are brimming with hopeful members. By March, they are back to normal with the regular members. Why is that the case? Because human nature dictates that most of us acknowledge the

problem of obesity but few will actually diet and exercise to achieve our goal. It s too hard and requires self-sacrifice and determination. That s also true of business.

The world if full of new businesses going under because of poor planning and no long-term commitment to success. It takes deep pockets and faith to move forward with a successful business. Four out of five new companies will fold in the first five years because they didn t do the basic things to make it in the real world. But it just requires some planning and fortitude to get past the obstacles. Of course it s far more easy to not even try than attempt to start a business

from scratch. Or design and market a new product. Or whatever you dream about doing in the future. Will you enter 2008 and look back over the previous year and wonder what might have been? Or is it time to finally put your hopes and desires on firm footing and map out a plan of action?

Don t allow another year to pass you by. It might require getting a partner, taking out a loan, forming a small group of investors, or bringing in experts and giving them part ownership. But part of something great is better that having all of nothing. You can make your life meaningful and exciting if you choose to do it. No one else can

live your life for you. Depending on your situation, you can pick something simple to begin with and then grow it into something amazing. Perhaps it might be a hobby that becomes a business. It s your decision and you re the one in control of your own destiny. You ve already wasted five minutes by reading this article, so stop reading. Move away from the keyboard, grab a pad and paper and write out your plan. Once it s written, it becomes more real and remember you can make a difference in your lifetime. It s begins by taking this first step.

Jeffrey Hauser was a sales consultant for the Bell System Yellow Pages for nearly 25 years.

He graduated from Pratt Institute with a BFA in Advertising and has a Master’s Degree in teaching. He had his own advertising agency in Scottsdale, Arizona and ran a consulting and design firm, ABC Advertising. He has authored 6 books and a novel, “Pursuit of the
Phoenix.” His latest book is, “Inside the Yellow Pages” which can be seen at his website, http://www.poweradbook.com Currently, he is the Marketing Director for thenurseschoice.com, a Health Information and Doctor Referral site.