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By DR. GLEN MOLLETTE

Too often, we quit just when success is within reach. Frequently, we give up during the darkest part of the night, unaware that dawn is about to break.

You may have spent years, even decades, wrestling with an addiction. That struggle has likely cast a shadow over your life, impacting your success, finances, and relationships. Ask yourself: Is your addiction worth the cost? Does it truly bring you the joy it promises, or is it tearing you apart and dragging you down? Deep down, you already know the answer: it’s a resounding no. So why not try again? This could be the year you turn the corner and rewrite your story into something extraordinary.

Perhaps you feel like your marriage has reached the end of the road. You’ve failed, your spouse has failed, and you’ve both let the relationship wither. But consider this: What could you or your partner do differently? No one is perfect. Another relationship will bring its own set of challenges because we’re all flawed. Reflect on the life, love, and memories you’ve shared. Is your marriage worth one more chance?

Take time to have an honest, heartfelt conversation with your spouse. Lay everything on the table—every issue, every hurt, every hope. Pray together. Be real with each other. Remember, something about this person once made you fall deeply in love. Revisit that connection and give your marriage one more committed effort. Even if it doesn’t work out, you’ll have the peace of knowing you gave it everything you had.

Every person has experienced failure. Abraham Lincoln lost election after election before becoming one of history’s greatest leaders. Losing hurts, but resilience is what defines us. Consider Donald Trump—regardless of your politics, his persistence in the face of immense obstacles is undeniable. What challenge in your life deserves one more try?

Maybe it’s your health. Are you tired of feeling sluggish, out of shape, or limited by your weight? Perhaps you’ve lost pounds only to gain them back. That cycle is frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. As Dolly Parton joked, “There’s a skinny person inside me trying to get out.” The key is consistency. Focus on small portions, three or four times a day. It’s not about starving yourself but building sustainable habits. Combine mindful eating with movement, and over time, you’ll see progress. Imagine how good you’ll feel six months from now, healthier and more confident, ready to dance with joy.

Finally, don’t give up on God. He can guide you through all these struggles and more. An old hymn poses this question:

“Have you failed in your plan of your storm-tossed life?

Place your hand in the nail-scarred hand.

Are you weary and worn from its toil and strife?

Place your hand in the nail-scarred hand.

He will keep to the end; He’s your dearest friend.

Place your hand in the nail-scarred hand.”

There’s still time to begin again. Whatever challenge you’re facing, give it one more chance.

(Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools and is the author of numerous books. His  column is published weekly in over 600 publications and in all 50 states.)