I've worked in small towns and some of the biggest cities. I've worked with solopreneurs and large businesses. I've worked with experts in finance, law, photography, technology, journalism and entertainment. The variety of ways people express themselves, create businesses and make a living (hopefully) is countless. But there are amazing consistencies with such diverse (but successful) businesses. These include (but are not limited to...that's the lawyer in me) the following:
1. Time management. Successful business owners, actors, artists, entrepreneurs, CEOs, even tech geeks all seem to use time to their advantage. Without getting too academic, I've found two keys to better use time: (a) plan your day the night before (this gives your subconscious noggin' time to think about how to make things happen) and (b) ask yourself "What's the best use of my time right now?" and then DO IT!
2. Attitude. Successful people have the right attitude. No, I don't mean being eternally optimistic or controlling the universe with a simple thought. I mean taking a fair assessment of your abilities (not what you do but what you COULD do with the right drive, training, team, etc.) and creating a vision of what you want to accomplish with those abilities. Your attitude can inspire you and others around you...or it can drag you down (along with those around you).
3. Do something. I think it was Jim Rohn who said "You're not a tree...move!" Get off your butt (literally and figuratively) and make things happen. One of my favorite things to tell people is "Do something, even if it turns out to be wrong." I'd rather act and fail (*gasp*) and learn, than simply watch life pass me by from the safety of my couch.
4. Never stop learning. Do you think the best actors stop practicing or learning? Do you think the best CEOs stop reading or writing or taking seminars? Did you ever play king of the hill as a kid? You can't climb and claw your way to the top, knocking down your enemies, and then just perch atop your new kingdom without having to defend your position. If you want to be the best, it takes effort. If you want to stay the best...guess what? It takes effort.
5. Take risks. I'm not talking about being a fool...unless that's what you need to get out of your comfort zone. I'm talking about taking chances that you believe will propel your life and your business forward. Even if you fail (which happens), you are still propelled forward with new understandings, new knowledge, new drive, new determination. If you're running and you trip, at least your momentum keeps you going in the right direction (have a first aid kit handy). Risk is like sky diving. The first time I jumped, I was thrilled and scared and nervous, but I trusted my instructor, my parachute and my preparation. Do enough homework and preparation to increase your chance of success, but don't overdo it or life will pass you buy. In business, there is no such thing as "the perfect time". There is always risk.
Finally, never rely on luck (unless you ascribe to the idea that luck is where opportunity and preparation meet). Rely on YOU and your drive, determination, abilities, talents, time management, attitude and all that is in you. Best of SUCCESS!
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