Some people can make success look so easy. Looking in from the outside can cause us to miss the hard work people put in to get there. This is the iceberg effect of success. Success is the visible portion of the iceberg floating above the surface of the ocean. We must understand that an even larger portion of the iceberg is unseen below the surface of the water. The unseen portion of the iceberg represents the late nights, early mornings and sacrificial weekends of time and efforts spent working towards a given goal. Let us break down what is beneath the surface.
Hard work, Persistence, Sacrifices and Good Habits
Let us start here first. You have probably heard your parents, teachers, celebrities, or mentors talk about talk about ‘hard work’. These two words are key to success. You cannot get far without hard work, showing up, setting goals and getting it done.
Persistence is the continued action despite difficulty or opposition. In order to become successful in anything you do, you must keep pressing forward.
Sacrifices and good habits are a must. There will be times when you need to stay up late or wake up earlier than those around you in order to accomplish the mission. There will be times when you have to say no to things that will distract you from your goals. This is easier said than done.
Good habits come from organization. What does your daily battle rhythm look like? Do you start your day with a devotional, do you waste time scrolling on social media for hours, or are you checking things off your To Do List? Good habits are a daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and lifetime practice that sets you up for success in every area of your life. Discipline can be challenging, but it is necessary for success.
Rejections, Criticism, and Risks
With anything we want to accomplish comes challenges. This is inevitable. Challenges, rejection, and roadblocks are something that we should be realistic about and prepare for. I am not saying go into every situation expecting failure. I am just saying be realistic about challenges and how they could affect your progress.
Not everyone will like your ideas or the way you want to do something. This brings me to my next point. Criticism also comes along the path to success. You should have a mentor in your life that provides you with guidance and knowledge required to help you along the way. Although critics may say things we do not like to hear, it’s important to understand the difference between constructive criticism and someone wanting to tear you down or hold you back.
We can receive constructive criticism from our boss in order to make us a better employee but taking criticism from someone who is constantly negative is something I would not suggest. You should always look to improve yourself on your journey to success and a little constructive criticism here and there can help along the way.
Change will always happen, but it is how we respond to change that determines our path. Where are my risk takers? We are going to take risks when it comes to our journey to success. What I mean by risks is challenging our fear. You want a specific job, but you are afraid to apply for it. You are ready to take your business to the next level, but you are afraid to advertise because of what others might say.
I always compare this with getting into a pool. You want to get in, but the water might be cold. As you inch your way in, your body gets colder. So, what do you do? Be like Nike and “Just Do It.” Jump in and get it over with. I am not saying to take risks that will cost your life, family, job, or happiness. I am saying to be smart with your risks and combat your fears.
Success is not something that comes overnight, and many people think it does. It takes time and commitment. People only see the promotions, the money, the big house, or the vacations to different countries. They do not see the savings it took, the debt paid off, and the sacrifices over the years to get to that life. Success is a marathon, not a sprint. So, put in the work, find what works best for you and your life, and get to work. Success is waiting for you.
