Nate Gillette is a young man who let a mountain teach him valuable life lessons about dependability and commitment.  Based on his experience we call all learn about achieving our goals.

Nate was attending the Philmont Boy Scout Ranch in Cimmaron, New Mexico and the scheduled event of the day was a trek to the top of Mt.  Baldy.  He was somewhat concerned about the length of the climb, as well as keeping up with the other guys.  Encouraged by the presence of his father, Nate determined that he would make the climb, and he would not fall short of the goal.  He made it to the top, and in spite of the cold wind, he was rejoicing that through perseverance he had achieved his goal.

Coming home from Philmont Boy Scout Ranch, Nate realized that the lessons of Mt. Baldy are not just for Philmont.  There are always new challenges to face in daily life, and he could now see on-going success depends on setting goals.  Here are three reasons we need to set goals and then drive ourselves as hard as possible to achieve victory.

1.  After the arduous work is done and the goal is reached, we can enjoy a sense of personal pride on the inside.  This pride is a powerful motivator for accomplishing the next goal.

2.  By accomplishing the task I had set out to do, I learn to diligently work through the difficult hardships I encounter.  These hardships often threaten my success.  Gradually I will form a habit of tackling hardships with everything I’ve got.

3.  When I attain a goal, it will very likely be an inspiration to someone else to press on.  The person who reaches the finish line after a hard race is in a great position to share some of that enthusiasm and motivation with others.

Thanks to Nate Gillette for helping us all see that setting goals, and working hard to achieve them demonstrates dependability and commitment – character qualities we always need in our lives.