Amongst the general population are people who seem to enjoy a lot more success than the rest. These people may be leaders of industry, but they still get up every morning, just like you and I. So what sets them apart?
The pessimists amongst us would say it has a lot to do with luck. But the truth is, to be successful, you need create your own luck. It is important to take charge and start living proactively.
Here is a list of things that you should make a habit.
Presentation.
“Never judge a book by its cover”, ever heard that? Well it’s not true. If it was, the graphic design industry would disappear in an instant, along with fashion, art and architecture. We all judge one another based on our appearance. This is because of the simple fact that it is something we control. Looking a certain way explains to the world what you are here to do. It’s why police have uniforms.
For business, looking neat and presentable is a must. It means you take pride in your appearance, not just because you care what others think of you. But also because you care about the work you are doing, hence dressing for the occasion. You don’t turn up to a wedding in shorts, right?
Set goals, make lists.
It may sound a little elementary, but there is a certain power in setting a goal and achieving it. Setting a goal not only has the ability to keep you on track in times of turbulence, but it also sets a path to follow. The important part of goal setting is to make it specific, not just “I want to be happy”. Set specific, achievable goals that have a finite point, a timeframe and measurable results
Go for a run.
Every morning you go for a run, you start the day by achieving something.
There is a lot of scientific data to back up the benefits of exercise, release of endorphins, increased metabolism, weight loss and so on. But the most beneficial is the psychological one. Going for a run in the morning, (before breakfast and maybe after a coffee) forces you to get into a routine. It is a great time to plan out your day and think about what you need to achieve. But also, in our ever growing world of interconnectivity, it is a time of solitude. Running can be a great way to have time to yourself, time to reflect and clear your mind. Also, distracting yourself with other thoughts whilst running actually helps you run further.
Invest in yourself, education.
Nelson Mandela famously said “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. He was right, in fact studies have shown that education has being the principle factor in freeing many countries from poverty.
An investment in your own education is an investment in your future. There has been countless stories of great successful business men who have lost all their money, became bankrupt, but came back to become successful again. They may have lost their millions, but as long as they found the strength to carry on, they can always put their greatest asset back to work. Their mind.
Investing in yourself is easy and it doesn’t mean quitting your job and moving in with your parents. You can start small with a book. Then progress onto night classes or correspondence. The main goal is to improve yourself and your mind, however, try to gather a few certificates along the way to prove it.
Success doesn’t come to those who let life lead them. These four habits will not solely make you successful, but hopefully they will help bear to fruits that will.
