WHAT IS SUCCESS?

A lot of research has been done on the subject of success and failure. The secrets of success can be learnt from the life histories of successful people. Successful people have certain qualities in common no matter which period of history they lived in, and no matter what their fields of endeavor.

Success leaves clues. If we identify and adopt the qualities of successful people, we too shall be successful. Similarly, there are characteristics common to people who aren't successful. If we avoid those characteristics, then we shall not be failures. Success is no mystery. It is simply the result of consistently applying some basic principles. The reverse is just as true: Failure is simply a result of making a few mistakes repeatedly. This might sound too simplistic but the fact  is that most truths are very simple. I'm not saying they are easy, but they are simple.

HOW DO WE DEFINE SUCCESS?

What makes a person successful? How do we recognize success? To some people, success might mean wealth. To others, it is recognition, good health, a good family, happiness, satisfaction, and peace of mind. What this really tells us is that success is subjective. Success means different things to different people. The definition that I feel best summarizes "success" is:

 Success is the progressive realization of a worthy goal. — Earl Nightingale

          Let's look at these definitions carefully. "Progressive" means that success is a journey, not a destination. We never arrive. After we reach one goal, we go on to the next and the next and so on.

"Realization" means it is an experience. Outside forces cannot make me feel successful. I have to feel it within myself. It is internal not external. That is why what often appears as success externally may be total hollowness within.

"Worthiness" refers to our value system without which goals can be unworthy. Which way are we heading? Towards positive or negative goals? Worthiness determines the quality of the journey. That is what gives meaning and fulfillment. Goals are important because they give us a sense of direction. Success without fulfillment is empty.

Success does not mean being liked and accepted by everyone. There are some groups I would not, out of choice, want to be accepted by. I would rather be criticized by fools than appreciated by unsavory characters.

I see success as a manifestation of good luck that results from inspiration, aspiration, desperation and perspiration—generally in that sequence.

Existence alone is not success! It is a lot more!

Do more than exist—live.

Do more than touch—feel.

Do more than look—observe.

Do more than read—absorb.

Do more than hear—listen.

Do more than listen—understand.

SOME OBSTACLES TO SUCCESS (REAL OR IMAGINED)

• Ego

• Fear of failure/success; lack of self-esteem

• No plan

• Lack of formalized goals

• Life changes

• Procrastination

• Family responsibilities

• Financial security issues

• Lack of focus, being muddled

• Giving up vision for promise of money

• Doing too much alone Over commitment

• Lack of commitment

• Lack of training

• Lack of persistence

• Lack of priorities