What makes you unique? Answering this question will provide the keys to a life of fulfillment and success.

In the words of Sidney Madwed, "If you want to be truly successful, invest in yourself to get the knowledge you need to find your unique factor. When you find it and focus on it and persevere, your success will blossom."

After answering the seven questions below, you will have a better grasp of your "unique factor" or factors. You will know that you have much value to offer the world because of the special individual you are.

Our unique qualities shine when we consider those things we value the most. Stop to think about what thrills you. You will begin to see the qualities that make you quite unlike anyone else.

If you wake up in the morning feeling enthusiastic about the day ahead, you probably have a clear sense of those things that make you unique. Best of all, you can't wait to put them to work!

Unfortunately, far too many folks view the day from a perspective of struggle. They place the responsibility for their contentment on circumstances. However, contentment comes only from the perspectives from which we choose to view life. Circumstances will change. Our unique qualities allow us to be flexible and provide value in response to circumstances.

When we recognize our unique qualities, we find they are always available. They allow us to give and receive joy throughout our daily activities. We become more resilient. We begin to take responsibility for the happiness we want in our lives.

Here are seven questions to consider that will help you to focus on your uniqueness. Spend ample time thinking about each question. Take a journal or notebook and write down your initial feelings and thoughts about each question. Then return to the questions from time to time and add additional insights. You will find this process of personal discovery to be very valuable.

1. What is your primary purpose during this life, and why is that important?

2. What are your greatest natural talents ? things you've been told you have a knack for doing?

3. What are you doing when you feel completely alive, deeply involved, and the hours seem like minutes?

4. If you just found out that you had six months to live, what would you spend it doing?

5. What characteristics will you be remembered for?

6. What are you the most determined to accomplish during your lifetime?

7. How are your deepest passions connected to what you are doing now?

Here is a poignant quote to remember, spoken by Michael Landon.

"Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it! I say. Whatever you want to do, do it now! There are only so many tomorrows."