The Ultimate Secret of Success
“The secret to getting ahead is getting started.”
Start now.
That’s it. Just get started.
Every success story started from point zero. Without that one courageous first step, it would never have happened. It would have stayed a dream, a genius idea, or a well-crafted plan. When you take the plunge, and start your business, you are risking failure. You can either win or lose, succeed or fail. Your chances will depend on a lot of factors. Preparations, research, and calculated decisions can increase your chances of winning. Not doing anything is a guaranteed failure, 10 out of 10, 100%, all the time.
The world would never have known KFC if Colonel Sanders opted the comforts of retirement. IKEA would never have furnished homes worldwide had teenager Ingvar Kamprad spent his money on trifle items like most teenagers would. The Harry Potter phenomenon would never have had happened if J.K. Rowling hadn’t persevered in writing and finishing the first book.
The most successful people have different stories to tell, have different motivation and propose, and different challenges to overcome. But all stories include perseverance, focus, and a lot of hard work. And that one courageous first step. The leap of faith.
The first step happens when you finally take the courage and make the commitment or do one concrete act that will commit you to your plans. Here are some first steps you can do today;
Re-write your to-do list
Or write one if you don’t have any. If you are to successfully manage a business, write a book, or practice a profession, you first need to manage your time. Time is limited and your most valuable resource. Working moms are at a disadvantage timewise, but many still came out winners. A to-do list will help you organize plans, prioritize tasks, and maximize your usage of time. It will also tell you how much time you have been wasting doing unnecessary things or nothing at all.
Create a master plan
Set a goal, the ultimate goal. Financial freedom, more time to spend with your family, a successful business, the freedom to do what you love – make a list. Imagine the perfect life for you. Then, work your way down. What are the things you need to achieve the goal – how much income do you need? These are your secondary goals. After you’ve identified the needs, plan on how you can achieve the secondary goals. Make small steps, include timelines and deadlines.
Call your banker
Or review your present financial position. Know how much money you have, how much money you can spend, and how much debt you are actually into. You can be living in a big house or driving a new car and at the same time drowning in debt. Are you earning enough to sustain your needs and pay the bills? Your banker can tell you the exact condition of your financial health. If you’re planning on borrowing and/or investing money for a business, it is best to consult with the professionals.
Make a commitment
Sign up a lease, enroll in a course, or set up your home office in preparation for your new endeavor. Make your first solid commitment to working up on your dream. Set up your first business meeting – with possible partners, investors, buyers, or suppliers. Getting out there and letting people know that you’re in business is a firm step forward. Go for it, now.
Write your letter of resignation
If you’re employed but having a job is hindering you from pursuing your dream, quit. You have probably been thinking about quitting, so why not do it now? Do not waste your time and energy on something that is not fulfilling or enjoyable for you. Do not be afraid of losing a good position or pay, money can be earned in many ways, but time can never be regained. So, write the letter now, and if you’ve already done that, send it, now.
Any step forward is one step closer to realizing your dreams. You might need to sit back and reconsider your options. Get off the rat race and from the daily grind that could consume us. Take stock of where you’re going, are you still on the right path? If not, take a detour, go back, take a breather, and find your true calling. That is also a move forward. Do it now.
