FROM THE OUTHOUSE TO THE PENTHOUSE

SPORTS HEADLINE-RAYS CLINCH FIRST EVER PLAYOFF BERTH
Since their inception in 1998, the Tampa Rays have been the joke of baseball. They usually couldn't draw more than 12,000 to their home games and had never been close to a winning season. They became synonymous with perennial losers. In 2008, that all changed.

With a new name (they dropped Devil from Devil Rays) and a new look, they were the surprise of the league. Holding first or second place from the beginning of the season, the Rays finally made good on the promise of all of their young talent they had accumulated over the years and took the fight to the 'big boys' in their division, the Yankees and World Champion Red Sox. Saturday evening was the culmination of everything coming together. With a victory coupled with a Red Sox loss, the Rays clinched no worst than a wild card berth in the 2008 AL Playoffs.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
I was always taught, 'if at first you don't succeed, try-try again. No matter what your history is, no matter the fact that the outcome seems bleak, like it's never going to change, don't give up. If you believe that whatever victory you are seeking is possible, then stick to the program until you achieve the success you seek. Perseverance is an intangible of all winners. The old saying goes, 'winners never quit and quitters never win.' Trust in yourself that you have the right stuff to come out on top.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT-
It's rare that companies start out at the top of their field. It often takes years, sometimes decades for it all to 'click' and to see the desired results. During these 'growing pains', it's vital to have a plan or program and stick to it. There is no specific blueprint for success in business. You have to develop your program and have the right people in place to implement it. Acquiring the right talent mix is another huge key. Sometimes the best looking person on paper isn't the best fit for your organization. Sometimes it's better choose personality and chemistry over a resume.

PERSONAL FINANCES-
Coming out on top financially takes time. Rarely do people 'start the game' with pockets full of money and bank accounts overflowing. Having a solid long term plan of savings, stocks, bonds, real estate, wise investments and being able to stick to that plan are tried and true methods to financial success. There can and likely will be periods of dry spells, when it seems that there isn't a way-no matter what you try- to see prosperity in your future. You've got to believe and stick to your plan and your financial destiny will manifest.

GAME PLAN-
Yesterday doesn't define your present or your future. If anyone were to predict the Rays would be atop the baseball world at the beginning of the season they'd be roundly criticized and dismissed. But in sports, as in life, victory and success can come at any time. Having a plan, sticking to the plan, executing the plan and seeing the plan through to fruition will garner long term success in all aspects of your life.