Just a few minutes ago I went through a traffic circle, what the British call a “roundabout.” All of a sudden the area where I live has been filled with roundabouts, some of them in high traffic areas and the one I crossed over earlier in a residential area.

All of these are new and we are getting used to to driving them. It’s not easy to do. Some of us are picking it up quicker than others.

I think we have actually learned from roundabouts. Here is what I have learned.

First, you have to get used to what you are doing. It’s not something that just happens. Just because you can drive doesn’t mean you can drive in a roundabout. You have to know what you’re doing. You have to know where you’re going. Experience seems to be the key.

You have to practice to be able to drive them. Most everything–even spiritual disciplines–need practice. The more you practice the better you are. You can’t quit, and you can’t give up. Like riding a bicycle, you have to endure the pain until you get the hang of it.

Second, you have to understand how things work. When you understand the why of something you also often understand the how.

Finally, you have to work the plan. I’ve noticed in life that most plans work but only if you work the plan.

Think about how most plans really do work. For example, almost all diets work – – if you work the diet. I’m a real football fan. I’ve noticed that almost all offenses work if they are suited to the personnel and if they know how to run the offense.

The key to most everything is consistency, perseverance, and dedication. If you have those attributes, you can make a real difference in your life and in the world.

I hope the next time you go through a roundabout you will concentrate on what you’re doing but that you also remember the necessity of consistency, perseverance, and dedication to every part of your life.

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