I’ve been thinking about the word “success” for quite some time now. So, after making the decision to branch out on my own and run STACKS Magazine on a full-time basis, the thought of what “success” entails popped up in my head again.   What does it really take to become successful? Is there a process? Are there actual steps I need to take? Those are some of the questions that I began to seek and find answers for.  What I found out in my research is that every person have their own path to success. There is not one defined process to achieve success. Instead, there are only key components that each person or business need in order to reach the pinnacle of what they define as success.

 

Thus, it’s necessary to use this platform to break down these key items. Each component (or trait) must be incorporated into your goals, daily tasks, and overal outlook so that you can reach your success.  Here’s my 5 Ways To Determine Your Success (in no particular order):

 

  • AMBITION –  Not every one will have it (and thats truth!). But, in order to see a dream come to full fruition, you have to ultimately have an inner ambition. You need to internally have “desire”. This desire will help fuel everything else. Ambitious people will do what it takes to get the job done. They have the desire to become somebody. They desire to be of value to this society.
  • COURAGE – Every goal will not be accomplished.  But, should that make you quit going after it? NO!  Having courage means that you are willing to do whatever it takes to get it done. You are willing to take risks. You understand that success comes failures. The most successful people in the world have had many failures. But, those brief setbacks didn’t stop them for continuing the journey.  Courages individuals have the ability to fight through the BS and keep on moving.  Even the most timid person and become the most courageous. Just look at the cowardly lion in The Wiz….
  • EDUCATION – I’m a firm believer in being educated on whatever your endeavour is. If you have a great idea for a business, but never worked in the field, it is best to research that industry. Research may take reading books, Googling information on the internet, meeting with others who have had success in that industry, etc.  The more information you are equipped with, the better off you will be at running your business. Education is the key!  You must educate yourself and understand the ins and outs before (and during) you pursue your goals.  This will help you make the best decisions for your business.
  • INNOVATION – Be different! It’s just that simple.  The consumer like to see new things. They gravitate to things that aren’t like the rest. Take the success that Trinidad James has seen (after only rapping for 10 months) for instance. He immediately rose to fame and $2 million record contracts because he brought a different look and sound to the music game. James and his Gold Tooth Gang was very innovative in their marketing approach.  It was the weirdness in his fashion sense and simplicity of his “All Gold Everything” song/video that shot him to the top…so quickly.  So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. 
  • PERSEVERANCE – When it seems like the world is against you, don’t give up.  Despite the failed ideas or doors slammed in your face, please know that you are worthy of being successful. You are worthy of seeing riches. You are capable of making great achievements in your field of work. All it takes is a strong belief that YOU CAN DO IT! Stick to your plans, fight the distractions, and power through all the obstacles.

 

Hopefully, you read each component and have a better understanding of what it takes to reach success.  If you have some others to share, feel free to leave comments.