We all want to be successful. Who doesn’t? No one in his right mind would say he doesn’t want to be. Of course, being successful means different things to different people. But let’s define it simply as being wealthy (based on the person’s standards), healthy, happy, and fulfilled.
It’s a constant struggle to reach and maintain the stage of success, and that’s why not all people are strong enough to live through it. Well, here are some tips from highly successful people on what to AVOID to become and stay successful.
Not investing in oneself
It’s perfectly fine to reward yourself with things that make you happy. However, don’t hesitate to spend on your “self-development”. Most of the items that you buy will not last or serve their purpose for a long time, but the knowledge you put in yourself stays there for the rest of your life.
Listening more to what other people tell you
For sure, your family and friends are usually there with their opinions regarding the advice or the reassurance you want. But sometimes, you tend to forget what you believe in and let yourself be convinced by what other people say. You should, therefore, develop the habit of educating yourself by getting the information you need. Also, believe in matters that empower you and give you the confidence to make “sound choices”.
Working your body too hard
You’re a workaholic, so you work late and sleep late. You have no time to hit the gym or run a few miles because you’re just too busy. It would just be a matter of time before your body gives up and has you collapsing on the floor. Not at all acceptable. Successful people give enough time for rest, relaxation, and exercise because they know only too well that a brilliant mind stays focused and productive when housed in a healthy body.
Remembering without writing
Don’t just make mental notes of ideas or plans. Write them down where you can see them. It’s a way to remind you what you need to do. And if you’ve already done it, what do you do next?. It would also enable you to “track your progress” and tell you how you’re spending your time.
Being ungrateful
Successful people know where they come from, how they started, and who they met in their success journey. Indeed, most of them have a lot to be thankful for. Acknowledging the people who have helped you become successful in one way or the other is the simplest form of thanksgiving that could go a long way.
Thinking more and acting less
While successful people are not encouraging you to be impulsive, this only means that you should be an “action man”. Do it without thinking too much about it. Some people tend to over-analyze and end up torturing themselves with many ‘what if’s. So let’s take it from the successful individuals who have developed the habit of thinking less and acting more.
Worrying and caring
Make plans, monitor your progress and take action. Focus your energy on the journey and don’t dwell on possible failures or what other people say. “Worrying less” means less or no stress. Enjoy the ride to success and not obsess about getting it.
“Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life – think of it, dream of it, live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success.”
– Swami Vivekananda
To be successful is one thing, but to stay successful is another. No more excuses! Learn from those who have been there and done that to have lasting success.
