Looking at some of the key characteristics of success, I discovered that those who are successful have:
- desire to change
- willingness to learn
- They are responsible and do not make excuses.
When you want to be more successful in your life, start asking yourself these questions. Do you have a genuine desire to change your current circumstances? Are you willing to do whatever it takes to change them for the better? Do you accept that success is something you have to make happen? Alternatively, you’re more likely to throw up your hands and say, “What’s the point, I can’t have the life I really want and that’s it?
If the answer to the above question is yes, then there is the irrefutable proof you need as to why your life is the way it is. What you believe the most in the depths of your heart; whatever you focus on consistently is what will show up. So today, why not make the decision to say:
“I __________ have a genuine desire to change my life for the better, to do whatever it takes to get my life where I want it to be.”
That statement, affirmed consistently, will begin to unlock your inner potential, begin to provide you with the support, opportunities, and training you may need to take you to the next level.
This leads us nicely to the next step: the willingness to learn. If you believe that you already have the answers and that there is nothing more you need to learn, then your life should be exactly how you want it to be, with no exceptions. Your skill set may need an upgrade, if that is the case take the time to look for opportunities to do so. Even if you work full time, there are always ways to take home study courses or part-time courses that fit your lifestyle. If you are unemployed or have a low income, courses are available for free or with a minimal investment. From basic literacy courses to advanced level degrees, the right course or training is available for you. Invest in yourself, it will pay dividends. Not only in increased income, but also in increased self-esteem and confidence, which are also the key personality traits of successful people.
Do not make excuses: your life is as it is thanks to you; not because of your parents, education, background, race, or gender. Although the truth is that if you face restrictions based on the above, then you will have to be more resourceful, brave, outrageous and determined to get where you need to go. There is no doubt about it; but on the positive side, if you conquer those ‘demons’, you will be an inspiration to others who faced the same discrimination as you and want to change their circumstances. Use the restrictions placed on you to ‘step up’ your greatness.
Taking responsibility for your actions, as well as your circumstances, is essential. If you are generally unfocused and inconsistent, then use the power of the pen to focus. Write down your goals, to-do lists, obstacles, and their solutions. This will give you the clarity you need. Set a timeline for completing goals and have a personal celebration when you do. Honoring your achievements, no matter how small, is also a trait of successful people.
Above all, be kind to yourself and be patient with your flaws, big or small. Say, “I’m doing my best and my best can only get better.” Then strive to make it so.