Onward, Upward Take the high road to success with these tips for positive progression.

I was kayaking with my friend Keith, and no matter how hard Itried, I could not match his pace. Exhausted from trying to keepup, I finally asked him the secret behind his paddling success.

His answer was simple: Steady, assured strokes allowed the craftto react to the force applied by the blade of his paddle. As withmany situations in life, the surface of the water and theundercurrents are unpredictable, but experience had shown him howto anchor his paddle effectively. Despite the changing seascape,Keith's craft glided forward as if powered by a motor.

It takes a similar dedication and steadfastness to smoothly moveforward in your business. People can be difficult to work with, andit takes extraordinary self-control to create success in a chaoticworld. By anchoring your actions in possibilities, you begin to getthe world to act as you desire rather than leave you to react tothe obstacles it produces.

Taking the high road begins by learning to navigate throughlife's challenges while suppressing the need to always beright. Be open, and realize there are lessons to learn from anysituation. Every person's opinion has merit and can help youmove toward your ultimate goal. Be optimistic and avoid all formsof negativity, and you will create far more opportunities forsuccess.

1. Stay positive, even if you don't feel like it. Thestrongest stroke in kayaking is powered by the entire body, notjust the arms. It's not always what we say, but how we say itthat matters. Your body expressions can be as compelling as yourwords during conversations. In every interaction, define the goalsinvolved, and focus your actions and words in a positive manner.Keep a close eye on the big picture, and speak from real-worldexperience--it validates your intelligence and competence.

2. Be an encourager. When I became drained as I paddled,a simple "Keep going, you can do it!" from Keithre-energized my efforts. The language you use affects your attitudeas well as others' reactions to your words. Pump up yourpersonal speech by persistently using morale-building, optimisticexpressions. People refer business to those they respect. Treatingpeople well ensures future business opportunities.

3. Consistently move forward. Believe that positiveoutcomes are always achievable if you work with others to findcreative strategies. Complaining makes you seem ill-prepared toconquer challenges and drains your energy. Rather than criticize,acknowledge the reality of situations, then formulate possiblepositive outcomes. You will be amazed at how people rally when theyfeel they're moving toward a successful resolution.

4. Handle both success and setbacks with an eventemperament. Your circumstances will continue to change. When agreat success occurs, acknowledge the contributions of everyoneinvolved. This boosts egos and encourages those recognized tocollaborate with you again. Acknowledge setbacks, but stress thatthey are opportunities to learn. Decide on a path to propel yourgoal forward, and take it.

Taking the high road isn't always easy. It requires practiceand perseverance to find the silver lining in every challenge,whether in business or in life. Take steady action, and even themost daunting tasks will seem manageable. Be patient--you willgradually notice positive changes in your work environment andpersonal interactions.