Early Thoughts: Nine Things Successful People Do Differently

Last week my dad gave me a print out of Nine Things Successful People Do Differently, an eBook based on the popular blog post by Heidi Grant Halvorson.

Overall I enjoyed it.

Reading both the eBook and blog post (the eBook address the same nine points but in greater detail) there are a lot of things I want to pick apart in greater detail, but for an initial reaction there are two things that weren't in the text that stick out.

The problem with periodic rewards, the mile-stone cupcake, or the "cheat-day" mentality is that it cheapens the reward of actually attaining success. When working towards a goal, success should be it's own reward. 

First, for Halvorson's 9 traits she never outlines a system of periodic rewards. This is how most advertising is targeted and how the average American is programmed to think. That is, "Reward yourself," or, "Give into temptation," or, "Damnit Josh you turn into a Diva when you're hungry--here have a Snickers." The thing is, even though most of us are smart enough to understand what's going on, we still buy into it.

I like that she decides to leave this out. The problem with periodic rewards, the mile-stone cupcake, or the "cheat-day" mentality is that it cheapens the reward of actually attaining success. When working towards a goal, success should be it's own reward.

That's not to say that Halvorson suggests white-knuckling through temptation. In fact, she suggests, 'be a realistic optimist,' 'don't tempt fate,' and while building, 'your willpower muscle' she even adds, "Your capacity for self-control is not unlike the muscles in your body... Just as well-developed biceps sometimes get tired and jellylike after a strenuous workout, so too does your willpower 'muscle'..."

The other thing that was missing I thought should have been included. Successful people keep journals. I've seen countless articles describing the benefits of keeping a journal. They usually reference Albert Einstein or Leonardo da Vinci.

Truthfully, I understand why she didn't. Halvorson's points are factors that contribute towards achieving a goal, while journaling is just a good idea. I only wanted to mention it as a segue to introducing my blog. I've kept a few pen and paper journals before and that is what I will continue to do. What is different now is that the more refined (read: fit for public eyes) ideas will end up here online.

Thanks for reading everyone I hope that this is the start of a long fruitful relationship.