Who is Standing Between You and Success?
by Ruth M. Schaub, PP, PLS

I believe the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands in times of challenge. Gaining certification can be a challenge, but instead of giving yourself reasons why you can’t, give yourself reasons why you can. Stop asking yourself, “What if I fail?” and ask yourself, “What if I succeed?” If you commit to certification, I believe you will succeed.

Whether you believe you can or believe you can’t, either way, you are right. Stop your self-limiting thoughts and take one small step toward success. Join a study group, attend online study sessions, purchase a reference book and read a few pages each evening.

Moving forward involves risk. My sons both learned that in little league -- you can’t steal second base by keeping your foot on first base. I ask you to take a risk, and move off first base, by stepping up to certification.

During a time when employers are looking to minimize overhead while maximizing profits, it is more important than ever that you are viewed as “profit.” When your employer has to make tough staffing decisions, you don’t want your name even entering their head for elimination.

You may be thinking that you can’t possibly add one more thing to your busy schedule. You have as many hours in a day as Helen Keller, Thomas Edison and Albert Einstein – it is simply a matter of how you use those hours. I urge you to make time to advance your career and maximize your potential.

When I am asked why I am so committed to NALS certifications, I tell people it is because I believe that everything I am and everything I have become as a legal professional is a direct result of my NALS certifications. My NALS certifications have provided me with countless opportunities for education, professional development and personal growth – and along the way I have made amazing friends. My dearest friends are my certification study buddies.

Today I challenge you to risk more than others think is safe. Care more than others think is wise. Dream more than others think is practical. Expect more than others think is possible. Step up to certification! Let nothing stand in your way.