When we are seeking self-improvement and success, a piece of advice we often hear is to keep our eyes on the big picture, and not get distracted by issues on the sidelines. Often, we get our goals in place and begin to make headway toward them. Then without warning, something happens that throws us off course. Staying focused on the big picture can help us get back on track.

First of all, though, it's important to watch out about wallowing in regrets! If something throws you off track as far as your success goals are concerned, it's OK to admit your own responsibility. However, if you let the regrets become foremost in your mind, you may never get back on your feet. Be gentle with yourself. We all know that everybody makes mistakes, yet sometimes it is much easier to let someone else be forgiven for theirs, but never get around to forgiving ourselves for our own. So let go of those regrets! Let each new day be a clean slate.

Another aspect of staying focused on the big picture is the realization that all meaningful accomplishments require commitment, consistency, and persistence. Success does not come easily. If it did, there would be more successful people in the world! Instead, it requires hard work and a "don't give up" attitude. When mistakes get you distracted, it's time to dust yourself off and start over.

The "big picture" is the long-term picture. It's what will become reality in the long run if you don't give up in the "short run." If you've been pursuing a goal or dream for a while, then you have already made some progress toward it. Don't let a temporary setback blind you to the progress you have already made.

Then again, maybe it doesn't seem like you've made any progress - you feel like you've just been spinning your wheels. The truth is, you are at least learning what doesn't work! No great accomplishment has ever happened without a time of learning, a time of going "back to the drawing board" as they say.

It's been said that almost every business loses money in its first year, and some lose for several years. During that time, the owner or manager is learning what works. They are learning about scheduling and managing their own time, energy and money. In short, during those difficult early days of a desired goal, we learn about ourselves. If the goal is in sports, music, or other accomplishments, we learn about practice and about our own limitations. We learn how much we can push ourselves. These are valuable lessons that are stepping stones to the day when the big picture will be reality.

Keeping your eye on the big picture is all about not getting discouraged by the little problems and distractions. Faith helps. If you can believe in providential guidance, you can rest in the idea that God's timing is not the same as ours, but is wiser. In fact, it's always right. A good dose of believing in yourself will help, too!