Some people are really successful, while others pursue success in vain. Personally, I’ve always wondered what sets the best apart from the rest. Whether we’re talking about individuals or organizations, it is clear that many flounder while others flourish. There are a lot of experts on this subject, but one thing stands out loudly to me.
Sure most of us are interested in success. I mean who wouldn’t be. But the truth is you can be interested in many things… like learning languages, traveling, losing weight, securing a new promotion, and many more. But without determination these things can remain just that. Interests. Idle interests. So how can you move from interested to successful? It all boils down to commitment.
New Year’s resolutions are a great example. How many of us have fallen off track with the goals we set for ourselves only 2 months ago? And the reason is because we’re merely interested in our goal (e.g. getting more exercise, working harder, spending more time with our families, etc.). But let me ask you this. Do you think Lance Armstrong is merely interested in cycling? Or that Steve Jobs was simply interested in technology?
When we are purely interested, we’re not setting out small measurable steps to gauge our progress. We’re not declaring our resolve to find a way no matter what. We’re just not committed. Especially when the going gets tough, those who are merely interested will look for excuses. While those who are committed will persist in the face of adversity. In all areas of your life – work, marriage, friends – commitment is the key ingredient that makes it all work. Anything else creates mediocrity.
So I ask you to look at yourself in the mirror and ask yourself this powerful question: Are you interested or are you committed?
