Success is what we all strive for but it eludes most of us. Success in financial matters and success in relationships that is what our whole life is all about. First we try to get it, and then we strive to preserve it. But success is not easy to achieve and there is no set formula for success. Different fields have different ways of achieving it. But there are some common qualities which can be applied to all, in whatever field they may be striving for.
I think the following qualities are a must to achieve success.
Find your passion
This is the first thing and also the most difficult thing to do. For most of us life goes by without being able to find it. We are so engrossed in our daily routine that we seldom give a thought to it. We just make ourselves happy by doing what we are doing. Even when we are able to find it then we might face difficulty in following it because of financial constraints or family condition or lack of time or family support. For the middle class and the lower middle class gentry this is a stark reality and 90% of the dreams are nipped in the bud in the beginning only. So the next best thing we can do is to make it a hobby rather than the primary work. Passion does not always mean being a climber or sea farer or explorer, it can be a business or accountancy or math, anything.
Take responsibility of your actions
Even if after all the constraints you manage to take steps to follow your passion then take responsibility of it. It is your own journey so you yourself are responsible for it. The journey will be tough; there will be failures and misfortune. At that time you cannot put the blame on others and crib. It is your baby and you have to raise it. You may miss opportunities and situations will seldom be perfect and you are responsible for whatever actions you take under various circumstances. There are no shortcuts here, it is all hard work.
Find a mentor
It is always beneficial to find a mentor from your field. He has gone through the process and has loads of experience to guide you. Don’t be overconfident; there is no harm in taking help of others. A mentor knows what is ahead and will significantly reduce your time and effort to achieve your success. A mentor will help sharpen your skills and identify your weak points.
Set goals and follow them strictly
Success is not a one step process but it is like climbing a staircase. Each step is a target, a part of the goal which you have set. These small targets will accumulate to be you final goal. You may get stuck in a particular step but you have to continue to stick to it and push on. Don’t get de motivated. Each step is a test of the strength of your mind and your perseverance. A lot many fail here, to continue when things get tough. That is why we see so less successful people in this world. Always have belief in yourself.
Patience
Any great thing doesn’t happen instantly, we all know the quote about Rome. This is true. Everything takes time. Some may achieve it earlier and you may get stuck on the way. But if you have patience then you will be able to slog on. It is a marathon so have that mindset. In India there is an age old saying that the fruit of patience is always sweet. So hang in there.
If you are able to follow the above things then success will be yours, with time. It is important to enjoy the journey because we know that the end of the journey will always be joyful.
