I'm a big believer in the power of questions. I believe that the quality of a person's dash inevitably comes down to the questions they ask themselves. Those who achieve success do so because they ask empowering questions. On the other hand, those who fail do so because they ask debilitating questions.

Realizing just how important questions are to my attitude (and therefore, my ultimate success); I make a conscious effort to start the day off right by asking the right questions. Each morning, I stand in the shower and ask myself questions like: "Is today the day that the producers of Oprah call to have me on the show?" "Is today the day that my book reaches #1 on the New York Times Bestseller List?" "Is today the day that Random House offers me a seven-figure deal to publish the DASH series of books?"

All throughout the day, these questions force me to see opportunities where others might see obstacles. Each day, I put the thought in my head that today just might be THE day and as a result, I'm empowered to move forward with my dreams. My morning questions tell me that it's not only possible but that it's inevitable. Sharing the DASH Principles on a massive scale isn't a matter of if; it's a matter of when.

I know this to be true because I've seen it work in my life many times before. All of my past businesses were built on the foundation of questions just like these. I've always asked, "Is today the day" and the results have been nothing short of remarkable. However, recently, I've added a new set of questions to my morning ritual that have helped me to take my life to a whole new level, not just in terms of business success but also in terms of enjoyment, fulfillment and my relationships with loved ones.

Recently, I've started asking questions like: "Is today the day I'm killed in a car wreck?" "Is today the day I'm diagnosed with a fatal disease?" "Is today the day I go blind?" " Is today the day that I am a victim of a terrorist act?" Now, I understand that you're probably thinking that these are extremely negative (if not outright morbid) questions. However, they serve a very useful purpose; they keep my mind focused on the truth. This truth is that the future isn't promised to any of us. As a result, we must try to make the absolute most of every day.

The simple truth of the matter is today will be the day for thousands of Americans. Can you say with certainty that you won't be one of them? Every day, we read stories in the newspaper about people like us who've had their dashes cut short due to an illness or an accident or a senseless act of violence. Given this reality, it only makes sense that we spend a little time facing up to the fact that we're not invincible.

And strangely, once you face up to this fact, this type of question becomes extremely empowering. It adds an incredible sense of purpose to your day. You realize that if today could be your last day on the planet then you better make the most of it. It immediately opens up your eyes to all of the possibilities to achieve your dreams today; not some magical day off in the future when the stars and the planets are in perfect alignment.

This type of question also helps you to put your day in proper perspective. If you're like most Dashers, you probably tend to take your family for granted from time to time. After all, they'll be around next week but the prospective client is only in town for a few days, right? Well, that may be true but there's no guarantee that you will be around next week, is there? Once you begin taking this fact into account, you'll be a lot less likely to miss your child's soccer game or date night with your spouse. After all, it could be your last opportunity to show the people in your life just what they mean to you.

Also, by asking these questions, you'll find yourself becoming more appreciative of the people and things in your life. Sure, we all want greater success in our businesses, marriages, families, you name it. Yet, no matter where you are in your dash, it's nice to just be in the race. And taking just a moment each morning to acknowledge that your dash could end at any time will give you more appreciation of every step along the way.