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The Simple Secrets of Successful People

On a recent visit to our library’s book sale, I bought this fascinating book “The 100 Simple Secrets of Successful People: What Scientists Have Learned and How You Can Use It” by Dr. David Niven. This gem of a book presents conclusions of scientists who have studied success in all walks of life. The author combed through various studies of success and successful people, and distilled in this book the factors that contribute to the success of an individual.

According to the book, here are some secrets of successful people:

Take small victories. Life satisfaction is 22 percent more likely for those with a steady stream of minor accomplishments than those who express interest only in major accomplishments. (Orlick 1998)

Write down the directions. People who regularly keep a journal, or some kind of written record pertaining to their aspirations, are 32 percent more likely to feel they are making progress in their lives. (Howatt 1999)

Winners are made, not born. Case study research on business executives reveals that 98 percent see their position as a result of plans and strategy amd that more than half credit their use of a successful person as an example to help define that plan. (Gordon 1998)

Use your own self-interest. Researchers find that perceived self-interest, the rewards one believes are at stake, is the most significant factor in predicting dedication and satisfaction toward work. It accounts for about 75 percent of personal motivation towards accomplishment. (Dickinson 1999)

Volunteer to feel better. Volunteers are 25 percent more satisfied with their jobs, have a better work ethic, and are more persistent in working toward long-term goals and rewards.

Tomorrow will be a better day (but how exactly). People who construct their goals in concrete terms are 50 percent more likely to feel confident they will attain their goals and 32 percent more likely to feel in control of their lives.

Win your own respect first. Researchers find that an optimistic personal outlook is more than just seeing the bright side of things. Believing in yourself actually produces increases in good health, motivation, and achievement for six in ten people.

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