The Difference Between Belief and Faith

I've met thousands of people who believe they have an idea - or a talent - that can lead them to success. But only a far smaller number harbor an unshakeable faith that they are on the right path.

Beliefs are intellectual; faith is woven into your DNA. You can't walk away from faith.

And this is where most people fail to understand the nature of true success.

Tenacious, persistent people aren't that way because they decide to be that way. In truth, they have no choice.

When I say "faith is woven into your DNA", I mean you simply don't have the ability to separate your faith from your physical being.

The reason some people persist in the face of failure is because they have no choice.

If it sounds like I am describing something you never will possess, I beg to disagree.

All of us harbor the potential to feel a faith so strong that we can't resist it. But you may have not yet encountered whatever it is that will trigger your faith:

• The love of a true soulmate
• The discovery of a skill that engages all your best skills
• A purpose so all-encompassing that it makes all other paths seem trivial

Here's my question...

Do you want to experience faith?

It may sound silly, but having a life's calling can be exhilarating, terrifying, or both. Thinking about it, I'm reminded of an old Doonesbury cartoon in which the CEO is talking to the guy he just promoted. After the CEO goes on and on about how we're either going to go down in flames or make it to the top of the mountain, the young guy asks, "Actually, sir, can I have my old job back?"

If you desire a safe and predictable path, embrace that path with joy and enthusiasm. Don't complain about your "boring" job or "average" pay, if that's what you really want.

But if you crave more, if you desire to feel an unquenchable faith, then recognize your path ahead will probably terrify you before you taste anything that approaches success. It's all part of the ride.

What's your answer?

Do you want to experience faith?

Bruce Kasanoff is a ghostwriter and coach for a wide range of accomplished professionals.