It’s funny how us humans work...
New “personal development” programs come out every year... all saying they’re the new “secret” to success, happiness and riches in all aspects of life.
But, the funny thing is... the principles that truly contribute the most to your success (or failure) are time-tested principles that have been true for hundreds (maybe even thousands) of years.
Nothing new.
Trevor Mauch here, and you know, I heard a quote that perfectly relates to today’s lesson. It goes something like this...
“Most of the time we don’t need to learn anything new to be successful and happy,
but rather... be reminded of something we already know.”
I think that quote is so damn true. If your year has not been going like you hoped... or if you're crushing and know you can do better... now’s the perfect time to adopt some new (or better) mindsets and habits to carry you through.
Check this out…
One time, a very successful entrepreneur showed me 10 success principles that his grandfather wrote over 80 years ago. And as you’ll see, those principles could have been written today they’re so true and relevant.
They’re simple, but please take them to heart - because success is often found in simplicity - not complicated systems.
10 Personal Growth & Development Ideas
These 10 principles were written 83 years ago and still hold value today…
1. Take a candid look at your self-image.
Clarify your perception of your role in life. You will not function more effectively than your estimate of your own effectiveness.
2. Take good care of your health.
Physical fitness goes with mental alertness. Stamina, enthusiasm and appearance are all influenced by one’s physical well-being.
3. Cultivate an intellectual curiosity.
Particularly on subjects outside of your own profession. Strive to always be learning new things. Design your learning program, rather than leaving it to chance.
4. Plan for rest, change, vacation.
Remember, vacation is not a reward for work done, but a preparation for work to do. Recreation is vital in keeping the mind and body in harmonious balance. Plan your vacation as hard as you plan your work.
5. Cultivate a widening circle of friends.
Avoid falling into a social rut. And making new friends adds dimension to your own personality.
6. Painstakingly nurture your base of support.
Identify the 10 people most important to the advancement of your career – and make a positive contact with each, regularly.
7. Sharpen your personal skills.
Take positive steps to steadily improve your ability to read, write, speak and listen.
8. Manage skillfully your personal affairs.
You cannot manage your job well if you cannot manage yourself. Launch your plan for personal financial security early.
9. Enrich your interpersonal relations.
Success in life and on the job depends 90% on your ability to get along with people – only 10% on your technical skills and knowledge.
10. Pray
Get on speaking terms with your Lord, but please don’t lead the parade to church.
Simple yet Powerful
So, you may be thinking that this is stuff you’ve already heard before in one way or another... right?
And that’s the point, I can honestly say these 10 principles are not just the recipe to being financially successful... but truly happy, fulfilled, challenged and successful in life in every aspect.
Jot down these 10 principles and tape them on your wall where you’ll see it every day.
Next, make a commitment to yourself to simplify things for the rest of this year. Don’t overcomplicate things. Don’t look for the “next best thing” all the time... when the best thing has been around for hundreds of years... proven by thousands and thousands of successful and happy people before you.
Something to Add?
Share your growth principle in the comments section below.
Write down the 10 principles, tape them to your wall, read them every day.
Commit to simplifying things in your life by using these principles as guidance.
Follow the 10 principles for a simpler, happier, more fulfilled and profitable life ahead.
Trevor Mauch
is the Chief Entrepreneurial Officer (CEO of Mach One Media an online media and publishing company and Co-Founder of Automize, a software development venture focused on helping entrepreneurs automate, systemize, and optimize their businesses and lifestyles. Their clients include multiple New York Times best selling authors, and Inc. 500 companies.