Describing success is almost as challenging as pursuing it. To determine if we have reached or can ever attain success, we must define what it is. The meaning is far from universal; it is unique to each person. Success is not necessarily what we obtain but what we are and become. Fortunately, recognizing and building success in our lives is easier as we observe and cultivate traits that successful people have in common.
1. Taking Chances.
The fear of failure paralyzes people into inaction. This fear is often more debilitating than failure itself. Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg cautions: The biggest risk is not taking any risk… In a world that’s changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.
2. Owning Up To Life.
When we blame others for our circumstances, we deprive ourselves of our inherent power to control our present and future. Taking ownership of our lives is prerequisite to any level of achievement. Accept responsibility for your life. Know that it is you who will get you where you want to go, no one else.
3. Pursuing One’s Passion.
Pleasure is a strong emotion that we can harness to achieve the life that we desire. When we work at something that we are passionate about, it is easier to exert our full effort toward it. Entrepreneur Mark Cuban advises: Find something you love to do. If you don’t make money at it, at least you love going to work.
4. Focusing On Specific Goals.
We must zero in on definite, attainable targets. Nebulous or varied goals diffuse our attention and energy; concentrating on one area for progress helps us to muster all our effort in one direction. Basketball legend Michael Jordan urges: Focus like a laser, not a flashlight.
5. Stretching Oneself.
Cultivating success requires breaking free of self-limiting and self-sabotaging beliefs and habits. We must face and move beyond our fears, doubt and lack of confidence to press toward our aspirations. Mogul Richard Branson suggests: I think whatever you’re doing in life just push yourself to the limits.
6. Constantly Striving To Improve.
Successful people remain vigilant in seeking ways to better themselves. They understand that success is a journey, not a destination. Former publisher of Success magazine Darren Hardy cautioned: Once-dominant empires have failed for this very reason. People get to a certain level of success and get too comfortable.