Success is not always financial. Each person’s definition is different. Some people define it monetarily, and others define it emotionally. I have found success as an entrepreneur because it allows me to be all of the things I want to be: husband, father, friend, mentor and technology consultant. Capturing success has been a life long journey, and it continues as I grow.

Meeting your goals and mastering success must be intentional. Michael Jordan, Sir Richard Branson and Tony Robbins use the right tools to make their dreams a reality. These secrets to success don’t come in the form of a four part audiobook or $5000 self help seminar. There is no way around the recipe for success. It takes hard work, determination and having the right people on your side. Here are five practical steps you can take to make your success a reality.

• Pray – As a Christian, I had to start with this one. When people pray it puts their mind at ease and helps them focus on something other than themselves. Success doesn’t come from my actions alone. Capturing success comes from relying on a higher power than your own. Successful people pray and meditate. Professional sports teams have a prayer before they take the field and court. Start your day with thankful and positive affirmations.
• Positive People – Negativity breeds more negativity. People who overcome addictions must surround themselves with people who encourage their success. Positive people are not saints or perfect individuals. They are not “yes people” who agree with everything you say. Positive people are encouraging, and they help you in capturing success. Friends, family and co-workers (sometimes) are some of your best cheerleaders. Surround yourself with them.
• Have Fun – Follow your passion and enjoy what you do. I hate listening to people complain about their life and jobs. Capturing success is about enjoying your life and having fun with others. Laughter truly is the best medicine. I don’t see my job as work because I have so much fun training people on technology. Serial entrepreneurs keep starting new companies because it is fun. Make sure you have fun away from work, too. All work and no play makes Johnny (and Jane) dull people.

Successful People Get Fired

• Read – Readers are leaders, and leaders are readers. What was the last book you read? Read motivational biographies and self-help books. Read the stories and histories of people are masters at capturing success and learn their tips and tricks. Bill Gates reads about 50 books per year. Pass your success to others and write blog posts on the books you read. The best ideas are hidden in books, magazines and online articles. Get a library card take advantage of this knowledge.
• Believe in Success – Successful people believe in themselves. When my daughters do well on a test or class, I tell them, “I am proud of you, but I am not surprised.” Capturing success should be normal mindset for them. Top athletes envision game winning touchdowns and goals before they take the field or court. Muhammad Ali frustrated his opponents and critics because he publicly proclaimed he was the greatest, and he showed it when he got in the ring.

Keys to Social Media Success

Capturing success is not an accident. Focus on the factors in your life you can control. People cannot predetermine where they will be born or who their parents will be. However, everyone can control their attitude and determine who their friends are. Remember: the best paths are the ones you carve for yourself.

Scientifically Speaking, of course…