Success: How to Get it and How to Keep it?

The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary. If you want something, work for it.
This old adage, simple in its delivery, encapsulates the very essence of success.–Bard Dad

I had breakfast Saturday morning with my brother Damian, who is the senior VP of New Balance, we reminisced about family, we debated business, and we talked about success. As I sat there across from him, watching him articulate his incredible life, I realized that 99.9% of his success came from hard work. From the time he toiled to get phenomenal grades in school to his work life where he spent ridiculous amounts of hours, focusing on the success of the business as he worked on.

If you are reading this, the subject of success probably interests you. And I can tell you that if there is one thing to focus on, that one thing is hard work.

My dad used to say, it’s called “Hard-Earned Income” for a reason because it’s hard work. That there’s no such thing as luck, but you’ll only be in the right position at the right time if you’re working at it. As Pablo Picasso, the famous Spanish painter and sculpture, said: “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.”

Success is a word that carries a crap load of meanings and interpretations. For some, it’s the way to get a great job; for others, it’s the harmony in their personal lives. Regardless of your personal definition, the journey to success is not a straight path, nor is it a destination. It’s a continual process, filled with hurdles, lessons, triumphs, and evolutions.

The Blueprint to Achieving Success

The starting point of all achievement is desire. Keep this constantly in mind. Weak desires bring weak results, just as a small fire makes a small amount of heat.
Napoleon Hill

Suggested Book By Napoleon Hill:

1. Visualize and Define Your Success

Before embarking on the journey, have a clear vision. What does success look like for you? A goal without a vision is just a wish. Once you’ve defined success for yourself, everything you do should align with that vision.

2. Embrace the Work

There are no shortcuts to genuine, lasting success. Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and dive into the tasks at hand. Remember, it’s the grind, the perseverance through challenges, and the continual learning that pave the way to achievement.

3. Stay Adaptable

The road to success is not rigid. You will need to adapt, pivot, and sometimes, make U-turns. Stay flexible in your approach, learn from your mistakes, and most importantly, don’t be afraid to change course if necessary.

4. Surround Yourself with Positivity

The people you surround yourself with can either elevate you or pull you down. Cultivate relationships with individuals who inspire, challenge, and support you.

Once You Achieve Success, How Do You Retain It?

If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.
Napoleon hill

Achieving success is a euphoric feeling, but retaining it? That’s where the real challenge lies.

1. Never Stop Learning

The world is constantly evolving, and to remain successful, you need to evolve with it. Invest in yourself. Attend seminars, read books, and never shy away from seeking knowledge.

2. Stay Humble

Remember where you started and the journey you embarked on to get to where you are. Success should be a tool for growth, not a weapon of arrogance.

3. Set New Goals

Once one goal is achieved, set another. Success is a continuous journey, not a destination.

4. Give Back

True success is measured not just by what you gain, but also by what you give back. Mentor others, support charitable causes, and remember: the true essence of success is in making a difference.

In conclusion, success is a rewarding journey filled with ups and downs. Embrace each step, celebrate your achievements, learn from your setbacks, and always, always keep moving forward. After all, success might come only after hard work, but the results? They’re absolutely worth every drop of sweat.