The tree falls not at the first stroke

The lumberjack sharpens his axe, rolls up his sleeves and lays into the tree with a will. If it has worthwhile timber it will take many skilful blows to bring it down before conversion to a useful purpose begins.

This saying uses a metaphor to make us aware that anything worthwhile takes time and effort. You must prepare, equip yourself with the right resources and take time to apply your skills to the task. Some trees are awkward to fell: their branches tangle with others or they lean at an troublesome angle. Other life tasks have equivalent problems.

Just as the good woodman will show preparation, patience and perseverance, you also must use these qualities as you tackle your own tasks.

Women's Wisdom

Little strokes fell great oaks

An insurmountable problem confronts you. But who said it was insurmountable? History is full of stories where people beat all the odds, overcome the impossible and go on to win the day.

When confronted by a seemingly impossible or overwhelming problem try to break it down into manageable chunks. The way to fell a large tree is not to give it one huge blow but one chip at a time. Then you can shout timber! before standing back to appreciate your success.

It is the accumulation of regular actions over a period of time that adds up and makes a difference. Impatient people want things now but their far-sighted cousins know the value of a little energy expended daily to achieve a lot. Patience is a virtue and everything comes to those who wait especially if they put in steady effort. The credit crunch came about because too many people wanted it all now and weren't prepared to save bit by bit towards their goal.

The drip of water will wear away the hardest stone. Learn to be patient and persevering and gradually you will see success. Rome wasn't built in a day. The longest journey starts with the first step. Sharpen your tools and get going.