Wednesday, June 20, 2012

If You Want To Go Far, Follow This Success Principle

In a recent conversation with my brother-in-law, he commented on the financial success of a close friend, "I don't know how he accomplishes all those things by himself."

Accomplishing "all those things by himself" is an illusion. Although it may appear that those who achieve success do so alone, they rarely (if ever) do.

If someone tells you s/he single-handedly achieved successes, then perhaps they have not taken a hard look around and acknowledged everyone who contributed to their accomplishments. This may include acknowledging a mother's wisdom, an empowering book, or an expert's advice.

Involve Others In Your Journey
By believing that those who achieve success do so alone, you may be inclined to fly solo. Instead, involve others in your journey. When you do, you fly higher and go farther.

In the book, Goals, author Gary Ryan Blair explains, "No goal is achieved in a vacuum. We all need the guidance and support that comes only from involving others."

4 Meaningful Ways To Involve Others
  1. Partner with a coach. Coaches are a superior resource for keeping you accountable, helping you clarify goals, and moving you into action.
  2. Choose a mentor. Benefit from the wisdom and experience of someone who has 'been there and done that.' Meet with your mentor at scheduled times and learn from his or her successes and mistakes.
  3. Attend seminars. Not only do these events offer the knowledge and experience of experts, they are opportunities to gain new contacts, meet like-minded individuals, and share ideas.
  4. Ask a "non-expert." While the idea of involving others is to gain from their expertise, do not discount the knowledge others may have to offer. For example, a CEO may gain valuable insights from team members that allow him or her to reframe a problem and find solutions.
The life-changing benefit of involving others can also be found in the African proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others."