We seem to be obsessed with success – and with celebrities. But mostly they’re only famous for a while. They look great for a season –or sing one great song-and then disappear. Much more interesting are people who manage to be successful for their entire live. They’re often not in the least bit famous-but they are inspiring. They have lots of things in common. Like their success usually has nothing to do with their family or background. Most aren’t born wealthy, and only about half of them complete college. Money or status isn’t especially important to them, and they don’t usually make them successful. Now that’s a trick worth learning.

Like they work hard! You want to be successful? Forget get-rich- quickly schemes.
at’s what helps you figure out what is important, and what is not. Successful people constantly look for connection between new technologies and people’s needs-because they lead to business opportunities.

They’re creative, spotting possibilities where others only see problems. They wake up in the middle of the night with new ideas. And then get advice, try them out and make them happen. They know lots of different kinds of people. And listed to them. Friends, neighbours, colleagues, waiters and bus drivers. They are not necessarily the life and soul of the party-in fact many are quite quiet or even shy. But they value people and relationships- and give credit to friends who helped them when they needed it.

Celebrities quickly become arrogant and think that they have a right to their fame. But really successful people remain modest-and constantly work on their approach to life. When something doesn’t work out when they learn from it and to do better next time. They’re self-reliant. They don’t worry about making mistakes, and don’t waste time complaining. They make decision and get on with things. Success requires action, decision and commitment.

They keep a sense of proportion. Even when things are stressful, successful people keep calm, rarely panic, ask the right questions and make good decisions. They live in the present because that’s the only thing in life they can control. They look people in the eye, listen hard, and enjoy their food, music, or just playing with children. Yet they also see the future. They spot trends and opportunities with miss completely. And they respond quickly. When a new technology appears, or a change in the economy, they’re always the first to respond. But thoughtfully, without overreacting or un-necessary haste.

They rarely loose their temper, and are deceive, creative and energetic. They never seem to be rushing round and yet somehow, they get more done than the rest of us put together. They’re very practical and good at using technology, information and skills to reach their goals. They also assess risk accurately. Impulsive people under-estimate the things that might go wrong. And so they rush into foolish ventures. Cautious people have great ideas but fail to take advantage of them. Because they override risks of failure, successful people work to get balance right. So they experience fewer failures and aren’t caught unprepared when things do go wrong.

They show up on time too! Don’t laugh. Just by paying attention, telling the truth, working hard, going the extra mile and doing your best, you’re already ahead of the pack. Because success is not magic. It’s doing a better job right now. So keep your eye on the ball. Life’s full of frustrations and distractions. But successful people aren’t confused by them. If you are clear about what’s most important to you –what makes life worth living- then you’re less likely to drift off course. And be grateful. Keep reminding yourself how many good days you’ve had this week. Figure out what made them good, and do more of the stuff that made them that way!

Successful men and women are also very self aware. They understand themselves and comfortable with the choices they’ve made in life. They do have regrets, just like the rest of us .But they’ve made peace with their past and are confident about the future. They’re also strikingly mature people-and have ideals. They want to make a difference or follow a dream. They communicate clearly and tell the truth about things like their age, relationships and dreams. If you develop habits like these, you’ll find they work together to give you an advantage. Because actually, there’s no magic ingredient to success –not even talent or good luck. Success is just a few simple habits and a life time of hard work. While failures are just a few errors of judgment, repeated every day.

And all of the traits that distinguish successful people from the rest of us can be learned! They’re free and nothing is stopping you from using them. Not sure how? Well, maybe get some professionals advance to help sort out your priorities. But the most important thing’s to be determined. And to get started!
robin