This five point philosophy is based on some of the methods Genevieve Dawid's parent used to help her overcome daily challenges as a dyslexic. These methods are very simple but highly effective. Over the years she has developed and expanded upon these five principles, to help people in all walks of life, to deal with a variety of situations.

1. Identify Problems & Areas Needing Improvement

The first step is finding and identifying the problem(s) you need to deal with. This is something most individuals can't see for themselves, and in corporate life especially, with so many people and personalities to deal with, it is sometimes difficult to perceive what's going on in every area.

2. Plan Your Goals

Once the problems and areas of improvements are uncovered or recognised then you can set your goals in order of importance: short, medium, and long-term. Think about what you want to achieve and set out which ones should be addressed first. This list of goals can be amended as and when you like, because you are in total control.

3. Create a strategy and Implement it

Once the goals are listed and prioritized you need to have a strategy to implement them. Realistically, not every strategy works first time. So you may need to try a solution and if that does not work, revise your strategy. To improve yourself, or your life, you simply need to devise new strategies, when and as needed. Once you see these strategies start to work and change your life it's a wonderful experience!

4. Track and Record Results

It is vital to record and monitor your changes. One of the greatest motivators is tracking your results, which allows you to observe your progress, and also see how you are constantly building upon your successes. One great method of monitoring your results is to use a Record of Achievements; it can act as a constant reminder of what you have achieved so far. Reviewing your progress in this way will help you to relive your memories and the inspiration becomes a catalyst for the next task.

5. Keep going

The key is not to let obstacles get in your way and to keep pressing ahead. Pay little attention to any negative thoughts or setbacks you may encounter, just stay focused on your progress and remind yourself of past successes. If you need to, revisit your Record of Achievements and see just how far you have actually progressed. As soon as you have discovered, (and more importantly, decided), that when faced with challenges nothing will remain a permanent obstacle in your life - you can move on. And be able to deal with any future problems, as they came along.

My Aunt Janet had Downs syndrome. I think some of Mum's creative ways of getting me to learn might have been based on her experience of her sister's learning difficulties. Janet was a great inspiration to me, demonstrating that we all have potential; we just need to be in the right environment and frame of mind to achieve and keep going ahead.