The Key Habit That Distinguishes Achievers from Dreamers
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Chapter 1: The Power of Asking
In a notable interview nearly three decades ago, the late Steve Jobs, co-founder of one of the largest tech companies, emphasized a crucial habit that differentiates those who take action from those who merely fantasize: the courage to ask for what you desire.
In this 1994 interview, Jobs remarked, "Most individuals never pick up the phone to call. Most people never ask, and that’s the defining factor between those who accomplish things and those who only dream of them." This ability to request assistance or resources is what propelled Jobs and countless others towards immense wealth.
Many individuals hesitate to make requests, often hindered by fears that range from a worry of commitment to concerns about being perceived as bothersome or facing rejection. These fears can block the path to financial success and fulfilling lives.
Jobs himself seized a pivotal opportunity at age 12 when he bravely called Bill Hewlett, co-founder of Hewlett-Packard, saying, "I want to build a frequency counter, and I was wondering if you have any spare parts I could have." Hewlett was impressed by Jobs' initiative, providing him with the parts and even a summer job at HP. That single phone call significantly altered the trajectory of Jobs’ life, imparting a vital lesson: be willing to ask for what you want.
Everything that has occurred in our world has often stemmed from individuals who had the audacity to seek help, whether it be for assistance, financial backing, or guidance, just as Jobs did when he requested parts.
Section 1.1: Resilience in the Face of Rejection
A second transformative lesson that complements the act of asking is the importance of not accepting "no" as a final answer. This doesn’t mean persistently bothering someone who has declined your request. Sometimes, a refusal arises simply because the person is unable to assist at that moment.
It’s crucial to approach others instead and continue seeking what you desire. Take, for instance, authors like J.K. Rowling. She sought to publish her first Harry Potter book and approached several publishers. While twelve turned her down, one said yes. The power of a single affirmative response can be life-altering!
Had Rowling accepted the first rejection, she might never have explored other opportunities. Instead, she asked and moved on when faced with denials.
Section 1.2: The Importance of Seeking Help
As the saying goes, “If you don’t ask, you’ll never know.” It’s always preferable to inquire and face a rejection than to remain in ignorance about what could have transpired.
Elon Musk’s journey serves as another testament; he wouldn’t have reached his current heights without asking for assistance while launching PayPal. He recognized he couldn’t do it alone and sought help and funding. Some responded positively, granting him the resources he needed. The rest is history.
This video discusses what distinguishes dreamers from achievers, featuring insights from Steve Jobs.
Chapter 2: The Courage to Pursue
In this video, Steve Jobs elaborates on the traits that separate those who dream from those who act on their ambitions.
Kind regards,
John Harrison.
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