Pioneer of the self-improvement industry, Paul J. Meyer became a millionaire by the time he was 27 years-old. He started more than 60 companies and produced and sold more success-inspiring, motivational materials than anyone else in the world. To me, he is one of the icons of entrepreneurial success.
Photograph: Wix Media
I was fortunate to have met him and recall him saying, "Whatever you vividly imagine, ardently desire, sincerely believe and enthusiastically act upon, must inevitably come to pass."
While vision, belief and perseverance are necessary bedrocks for developing oneself on the path to achieving goals, I don't think they are sufficient. I believe there are some additional foundational elements that must exist. These elements are crucial for those who decide to step out into that lonesome path called entrepreneurship.
In addition to vision, belief and perseverance, I would include:
Peers. Entrepreneurship is a unique and incredibly exciting journey. And it is filled with adventures on what can be a desolate path at times. It can be lonesome for entrepreneurs in the early stages, especially when they are stepping out and away from the safety and comfort of a traditional organization. So, it's great when entrepreneurs find their peers. And there's nothing more exciting than when a group of entrepreneurs get together, because it's like a melting pot of enthusiasm, exciting ideas and collaboration.
Courage. There are numerous households replaying the constant anthem of "go to school, pay attention, get good grades, and prepare yourself to compete in the marketplace. Then get a great job and be sure to put your head down and do great work so you'll be recognized, rewarded and promoted. Chances are you'll be able to stay around and hopefully retire well." But that's not the thinking of the entrepreneur.
In the early stages of the path, you may feel doubtful and question whether the choices being made are sound and will pay off. And invariably you may feel anxious, troubled or fearful that things will go awry. And they will. You'll make mistakes. But deep inside of you is a calling that can't be ignored. It's one that will push you past your fears and encourage you to step out on your own. Your calling requires your courage.
Curiosity. Many needed personal success traits will only be developed when certain attitudes are developed. Attitudes like being coachable and willing to learn from others who you encounter along your path. You will develop them through a deep curiosity that will lead you to invest time and effort in reading, classes, mentoring, recordings and training programs. There has to be a willingness and humility to learn from others who've traveled the entrepreneurial path and who are willing to share their successes and failures for the budding entrepreneur to learn and grow. By being curious and following this wisdom, the chances for your success will increase.
Desire. It's important to identify that burning desire within you. What is it that you really want? What are the outcomes and lifestyle that you desire? What is that something that you are willing to stake much of your life in exchange for? The goals that fuel that burning desire should be identified and cemented with strong emotion. And there has to be this insane burning awareness that life wouldn't be complete without you courageously pursuing this goal. Because that's what it takes to put aside ego, to sit at the feet of maestros, to invest scarce resources, and deny oneself the comforts and short-term enjoyment that your colleagues may gravitate toward. All in exchange for those greatly desired outcomes.
In addition to vision and steely perseverance, these are a few of the critical elements required for entrepreneurial success.
I'm insanely dedicated to helping people achieve great results, and become irresistible and financially invincible. Together, through intentional and achievable steps, we can make your future bright, build your wealth and give you the freedom you deserve. Today is your day to take that first step. Contact me here.