by the student himself—and that is his own study and application. The words of Emerson, "Thou shalt be paid exactly for what thou hast done, no more, no less," apply with striking force to the study of shorthand. The student will get out of shorthand just what he puts into it—no more, no less. And what he gets out of it will depend very largely upon his attitude of mind.
If he approaches the subject with enthusiasm for it, with the aim in view of perfecting himself in it for the sheer joy of achievement, without thought of the ultimate results, his success is assured. Some of the most prominent men and women in commercial and professional life to-day got their start in the world through the opportunities that shorthand offered. But they were invariably good stenographers first. They threw their whole energy into becoming experts in the profession they had selected, and the habit formed of doing things well extended to all their other activities. The result was that when the big opportunities came they were ready for them. Their skill in shorthand and typewriting had attracted the attention of those higher up, and they were given opportunities that were denied those of lesser skill.
Correct Habits Vital.—The late Professor James, the great psychologist of Harvard University, brings out the power of habit most graphically in his book on psychology. He lays down some maxims that should be embedded deeply into the consciousness of every student of stenography. "Could the young but realize how soon they will become mere walking bundles of habits," says Professor James, "they would give more heed to their conduct while in the plastic state. We are spinning our fates, good or evil, never to be undone."
All habits, good or bad, are the heritage of youth.
