When things don't work out for losers, they usually attack, blame and make excuses. The hallmark of a failure is passive aggression. They cut and run and then attack from the shadows. Winners, on the other hand, get stronger and more detremined when at first they don't succeed. Epictus taught us:
"Difficulties show men what they are. In case of any difficulty God has pitted you against a rough antagonist that you may be a conqueror, and this cannot be without toil."

Winners believe in themselves. They're resilient and steadfast. They grit their teeth, smile in the face of danger and confront the issues. The steel themselves and tell it like it is. They have the courage of their convictions. Listen to Michael Savage's show sometime. He doesn't pull any punches. You may not agree with his opinion, but you know he's a straight shooter in a world of whining wimps. Strong people take responsibility for their successes as well as their failures. They don't play the victim and they deliver what they promise. They care more about congruency and honor than public opinion.

Most importantly, champions see stepping stones where others see obstacles. "What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger", the heroes shout. While pressure makes losers bitter, it makes winners better. They know that it takes pressure to make diamonds out of coal. They embrace challenges as an athlete seeks out the burn during his training. Self dicipline, integrity and humility are the hallmarks of the eagles among us.

Successful people respect themselves and live according to their values. They do not compromise their beliefs. An old proverb warns us, "He who puts up with insult invites injury." the greatest insult you can pay yourself is to fraternize with losers. Be kind to them, but do not spend time with them. High regard for yourself is based on discipline, hard work, honesty, and high ideals and expectations. When storms come, champions calmly and confidently put on the armor of resolve, knuckle down and fight until they win.

No man is free who is not master of himself. ~ Epictetus