We’re constantly hearing about how there is no set rulebook for life. Sure, it sounds cliche, but if this statement is true, then hard work and consistency really do make a difference. I bet if you had to ask successful people what it took to be a winner, however, all of them would have different responses.That’s because we all have our own unique experiences in life that cannot be characterized and cataloged into one ‘how-to’ book. It would be impossible to say for sure that doing exactly what one person did to be successful would have the same outcome for another.
The key isn’t so much in the final outcome as it is in the journey and a person’s personal perception of satisfaction.
Pick a Goal
Whether you gauge success on making a certain amount of money, winning a championship game, or graduating college, defining that specific goal is the first step in being successful on your own terms.
Ahead of identifying concrete goals, it helps to put yourself in a positive mindset. While this is easier said than done, taking some time to think about your past achievements may help give you the confidence needed to seek future success.
Once you have a clear goal in mind and you’re confident in your abilities, you’ll want to put a plan in place on how to realistically get to that end goal. Think about aspects of your life that may need to be changed and routines you’ll need to focus on:
- Are you going to have to re-examine some potentially toxic friendships?
- Will you need to take some classes or gain some kind of professional certification?
- No matter what your ultimate goal may be, positive thinking alone won’t get you there. You’ll need to prioritize time and effort spent in making that goal a reality.
Fight the Good Fight
For most of us, success will not come easy. There will always be a challenge to face, and a hardship to overcome. It’s part of the process for most us. The important thing to remember is to put up a good fight and stand true to your original vision for success.
Skipping parties to stay home and study, working more jobs than you think you can handle, or dedicating your days to fitness may seem arduous and back-breaking at the time, but being consistent and determined will get you where you want to go.
Take Time to Enjoy
So, you won the championships, you got that raise, or you’re wearing a cap and gown at your graduation ceremony. Now what?
After your plan has worked, it’s time to appreciate and enjoy. Taking time to recognize your own personal achievements and the struggles you had to overcome to succeed.
This is important for growth. It’s also a great way to get ready for your next plan. Because there is always more to achieve and a new goal is just around the corner.
Marvin Shine
See also:
How not to waste your life
Living life to the fullest
How to overcome decision fatigue