# Achieving Success: The Right Mindset to Admire Others
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Chapter 1: The Two Perspectives on Success
Have you ever felt a pang of envy when you see someone excelling in their field? It's easy to attribute their achievements to innate talent, isn't it? As we flip through a book by a favored author or enjoy a stellar performance by an actor, admiration can easily morph into jealousy.
You may find yourself wishing for the gifts that successful individuals seem to possess, believing that you could never reach their heights. As a writer, cartoonist, and educator, I've observed the diverse paths my friends have taken—some have soared while others have not. However, I find joy in their accomplishments rather than resentment.
It's crucial to maintain perspective. Success may appear effortless from the outside, yet we must recognize the hard work that often underpins those achievements. Consider the two contrasting ways to view the accomplishments of others:
This leads us to reflect on your own mindset.
Section 1.1: The Illusion of Natural Talent
It’s tempting to think, “That writer is so gifted; I could never reach that level.” I’ve caught myself thinking this way before. The allure of natural talent can overshadow the reality that success requires dedication and hard work.
Think of your favorite athlete. Their exceptional skills are undoubtedly impressive, but they also invest countless hours honing their craft. If you’re juggling a day job while trying to pursue your passion, it’s easy to feel discouraged.
I often grapple with the notion that, given more time, I could enhance my writing and drawing skills. It’s simple to slip into a mindset of envy, convinced that those who excel have some inherent advantage.
Section 1.2: The Power of Hard Work and Commitment
On the flip side, many successful individuals owe their achievements to years of relentless effort. Talent may open doors, but it’s the commitment to long-term goals that truly paves the way for success.
Admire the dedication behind their talent. It takes years—often decades—of consistent effort to achieve mastery. Successful people commit to their passions, often investing significant time and energy without any guarantee of immediate returns.
Embracing trial and error is part of this journey. Success doesn't come without facing setbacks. You must cultivate resilience and adapt as challenges arise. Are you prepared to navigate the uncertainties that accompany the pursuit of your goals?
Luck does play a role, certainly. Meeting the right individuals at the right moments can create opportunities. However, if you haven’t prepared yourself through hard work, you may find that luck alone isn’t enough to sustain success.
Chapter 2: Shifting Your Focus to Hard Work
The first video, "BE the Person You ADMIRE!" by Warren Buffett, explores the mindset required to achieve success. It emphasizes the importance of emulating the qualities you admire in others, rather than simply envying them.
The second video, "The ONE Quality ALL Successful People Have in Common," highlights a key trait shared by successful individuals: perseverance. This quality allows them to overcome obstacles and continue striving for their goals.
It’s essential to understand that every successful figure you admire has faced their own challenges. Rather than focusing solely on their fame, appreciate the effort that led them there.
If you aim to achieve greatness, adopt a mindset that values persistence, respects others, and maintains positivity even in tough times. By dedicating yourself to your craft, even when opportunities seem scarce, you lay the groundwork for future success.
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