Why do we say “success is a state of mind”. Many would argue that success is a natural result of proper planning, preparation and focused action. That viewpoint certainly isn’t completely wrong – but there are also many exceptions to disprove that “rule”. Have you ever seen two people attempt the same objective, using the same methods and only one of them succeeds? Is it sheer luck? Timing? Tenacity? More often than not, it’s a person’s mind-set that determines whether they fail or succeed.
What are do we mean when we say “mind-set”, anyway? Generally, mind-set refers to your predominant state of mind, or way of thinking day to day. It’s what you think about, focus on, and expect from your daily experiences. Think negatively, expect the worst, feel pessimistic about your options and that’s exactly what you’ll seem to draw into your life. Likewise, think positively, expect the best and focus on a successful outcome and you get it most of the time.
Makes sense, right? But how exactly does this work? Why is a success mind-set so important? There are three big reasons:
1) A success mind-set boosts your self-belief and makes you confident.
A lack of belief in yourself usually comes along with a sense of powerlessness and futility, which is the exact opposite of a success mind-set. This sense of powerlessness can result in a “victim” mentality. Lack of confidence means you see no point in trying to be successful because it won’t happen anyway. This type of mind-set is a clear recipe for failure.
Having a true success mind-set, means you believe in yourself and your abilities. You believe you can succeed at nearly anything you try, and you’re willing to give it your best shot. Even better, the more you do try, the more confidence and self-belief you build until you’re virtually unstoppable!
2) A success mind-set makes you persistent.
Without a success mind-set, one failure is enough to convince you that pursuing your goals is a waste of time. Persistence and determination don’t exist in your world. If you don’t become a raging success the first time you try, you decide that it simply wasn’t meant to be. Unfortunately, few things worth having are obtained so easily!
For those with a success mind-set, failure is not the end of the story – it’s just one more way that didn’t work out the way you planned. Those with a true success mind-set know that the only true failure occurs when you quit trying.
3) A success mind-set results in more fruitful actions.
Ever been confused because you didn’t know the best way to approach a specific goal? Maybe you knew the best course of action but you felt intimidated by some of the action steps required. As a result, you may have kept sabotaging your efforts as you searched in vain for an easier or less frightening way to your goal.
With a true success mind-set, you’ll always take the most effective action steps that will lead directly to your goal. If you need a mentor or coaching, you’ll seek them out. If you need someone to hold you accountable for your actions, you’ll listen to their counsel. You’ll also have the inner confidence and determination take action on any advice you receive. Which after all, is a sure recipe for . . . you guessed it; success!
If I had to sum up how to develop a success mind-set into as few words as possible, I’d say this:
- Pursue your dreams.
- Think positively.
- Believe in yourself.
- Believe you can do better.
- Learn, grow and develop yourself.
- Be willing to take chances.
- Give it your all.
- Expect the best in every situation.
- Be accountable
- Be willing to fail.
- When you fall down, get back up and try again.
Keep working on this list everyday and you can’t help but become successful, from the inside out.
Wishing you a larger life,
BB
