The cost of success

There are so many get-rich-quick scams around now that almost anyone can fall into the traps. Everyone wants to be successful and, for many, that usually means financial abundance. Success does not come quickly and it always has a price tag attached. By the time we see the results of someone else’s hard work, chances are we missed the months and years of toil and even pain that it took to get there, but to us, their success seems to be overnight.{{more}} Whether you are vying for the high-paying job, going back to school or planning to launch your own business, know that just about anything is possible if you are ready to make the sacrifice. Here are a few things to consider on that road to success:

1. Set goals that are S.M.A.R.T. All goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time Specific. Think about what you want and use this formula to ensure your dream becomes a reality.

2. If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail. Write up a detailed strategy for achieving your goals. The old excuse “I have it in my head” is not effective and is a recipe for failure. Revisit and revise your plan on a regular basis.

3. Talk to yourself daily. Remind yourself of your goals every day and imagine how you will feel, look and act while accomplishing them. Train your mind to eliminate any negative thoughts or emotions that are contrary to your goals and force your mind to think only positive thoughts towards your desires, even when the odds seem impossible.

4. Seek out knowledge. Make reading a habit and surround yourself with a small group of trusted individuals who can encourage you and give you wise counsel when needed. Choose people whom you aspire to be like, who are smarter than you are and have expertise in different areas.

5. Face your fears head on; we all have at least one. Know which ones are hindering your success: fear of poverty, criticism, ill heath, loss of love of someone, old age or death (from Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich).

6. Get advisors. No matter how smart you may be, finding more experienced people to use as a sounding board is invaluable. It may take some time to find these trusted individuals, but when you do find them, listen to their advice and use their expertise.

The old cliché “nothing good comes easy” should serve as a motivator to push you whenever you encounter temporary roadblocks. Don’t spend time looking at what others have accomplished, as you do not know the price they paid for their success.

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