“Action is the foundational key to all success.”
Pablo Picasso
Introduction
According to Oxford, Success is the “accomplishment of an aim or a purpose.”
In order to accomplish our goals and consider our self successful ( at least according the the definition above,) there are 10 rules, if followed, will increase our chances of success.
I will list those 10 rules below:
Set clear and specific goals
Establish what you want to achieve and develop a plan to reach your goals.
There have been multiple studies that suggest a positive correlation between setting clear goals and success. These studies have shown that people who set clear, specific and challenging goals are more likely to achieve success compared to those who don’t.
For example, a study by Locke and Latham (2002) showed that individuals who set specific, challenging and attainable goals performed better compared to those who had no specific goals or easy goals.
Another study by Litwin and Stringer (1968) found that goal setting can help increase motivation, focus, and effort towards achieving the set goals.
Additionally, a review of several studies by S.M.A.R.T goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) showed that goal setting can lead to improved performance and satisfaction.
Overall, these studies highlight the importance of setting clear and achievable goals in increasing the likelihood of success.
Believe in yourself
Self-confidence and belief in yourself is crucial for success in any endeavor.
There have been several studies that have investigated the link between belief in oneself (self-efficacy) and success.
One such study, published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, found that individuals who had a higher belief in their abilities were more likely to set and achieve their goals.
Another study, published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, found that students who had higher self-efficacy were more likely to persist in their academic pursuits and had higher grades compared to those who had lower self-efficacy.
Other studies have found similar results, suggesting that belief in oneself is a key factor in achieving success.
Be persistent
Successful people don’t give up easily, they keep pushing forward even in the face of obstacles.
There are several studies that suggest a strong correlation between persistence and success. Here are a few examples:
A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that individuals who are more persistent in reaching their goals are more likely to achieve success in both academic and professional settings.
A meta-analysis of motivation and persistence research published in the Psychological Bulletin found that persistence was one of the most important predictors of academic achievement.
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that persistence is a strong predictor of success in entrepreneurship, with persistent individuals being more likely to start and succeed in a business venture.
These studies suggest that persistence is a critical factor in determining success in various domains, and that individuals who are persistent in pursuing their goals are more likely to achieve success.
Learn from failures
Failure is an inevitable part of any endeavor, but it can be a valuable source of learning and growth.
There have been several studies that have explored the relationship between learning from failures and success.
Some of these studies have found that individuals who are able to learn from their failures and use this learning to improve their performance are more likely to achieve success.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Business Venturing found that entrepreneurs who learned from their failures were more likely to achieve success in their future ventures.
Another study published in the journal “Personality and Social Psychology Review” found that individuals who were able to learn from their failures and persevere in the face of obstacles were more likely to achieve their goals.
Additionally, a meta-analysis of multiple studies found that resilience and persistence, which are both related to learning from failures, are important predictors of success in various domains, including education and career.
Take calculated risks
Sometimes, taking a calculated risk is necessary to achieve success.
Studies have shown that taking calculated risks can play a significant role in success. People who take calculated risks are more likely to succeed because they have taken the time to weigh the potential benefits against the potential drawbacks.
The ability to make well-informed decisions is crucial in today’s rapidly changing world, and taking calculated risks can help individuals make the most of opportunities as they arise.
Research has shown that people who take calculated risks are more likely to innovate, create new opportunities, and achieve long-term success.
A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania found that entrepreneurs who took calculated risks were more likely to succeed than those who played it safe.
Additionally, a study conducted by the Harvard Business Review found that executives who take calculated risks are more likely to be promoted and succeed in their careers.
Stay focused
Successful people are able to maintain focus and avoid distractions.
Studies have shown that having a clear focus and direction in life, as well as avoiding distractions, can lead to greater success.
Research has found that people who are able to stay focused on their goals tend to have better outcomes than those who are easily sidetracked.
This is because focus helps individuals prioritize their time and energy, and channel their efforts towards the things that are most important to them.
Additionally, having a clear and well-defined focus can help individuals make better decisions, avoid procrastination, and increase their overall motivation and engagement in their work.
Seek knowledge and improve your skills
Continuous learning and self-improvement are essential for success.
Studies have shown that seeking knowledge and continuous learning can be positively linked with success. Here are a few examples:
The Relationship between Continuing Education and Career Success – A study by the University of Phoenix found that continuous education can increase a person’s earning potential and job satisfaction.
The Impact of Formal Education on Career Success – A study published in the Journal of Education and Practice found that formal education can improve a person’s chances of success in their career.
Lifelong Learning and Success in the 21st Century – A report by the European Commission highlights the importance of lifelong learning in the modern job market and how it can improve a person’s chances of success.
The Influence of Education on Career Development – A study by the American Journal of Educational Research found that education has a positive impact on a person’s career growth and success.
The Effect of Education on Career Success – A study by the International Journal of Education and Research found that education can help individuals develop the necessary skills and knowledge for success in their careers.
Network
Building relationships with others can open up new opportunities and provide valuable support.
There have been several studies that show a correlation between networking and success in various fields including business, career advancement, and personal development.
Networking allows individuals to build relationships, exchange information, and gain exposure to new opportunities.
For example, a study published in the Academy of Management Journal found that individuals who engage in proactive networking behaviors, such as attending networking events, are more likely to experience career success.
Another study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that people who have strong professional networks are more likely to receive job offers, receive help with job searching, and receive information about job opportunities.
These studies suggest that networking can be a powerful tool for individuals looking to achieve success in their careers or personal lives.
By building relationships, exchanging information, and connecting with others, individuals can increase their chances of achieving their goals and reaching their full potential.
Maintain a positive attitude
A positive attitude can help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
There have been numerous studies that have explored the relationship between a positive attitude and success.
These studies suggest that having a positive outlook can help individuals overcome obstacles, deal with stress, and improve their overall well-being.
Some of the benefits of a positive attitude include increased happiness, better physical health, improved relationships, and greater success in both personal and professional settings.
Additionally, research suggests that people who possess a positive attitude are better able to persevere in the face of setbacks and are more likely to achieve their goals.
Take action
Successful people don’t just talk about their goals, they take action and make them happen.
There are numerous studies that suggest a strong link between taking action and success.
For example, one study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that individuals who take proactive action towards their goals tend to experience greater success in their personal and professional lives.
Other studies have shown that people who take consistent and persistent action towards their goals are more likely to achieve them than those who simply wait for opportunities to present themselves.
Taking action requires courage, commitment, and a willingness to embrace challenges, and it is this proactive approach that can lead to significant success in many areas of life.
Conclusion
I can’t think of a better way to end this blog than relating a quote by Woody Alan:
“Eighty percent of success is showing up.”
Woody Allen
Abe Jarjoura D.D.S., M.S.
Founder: Dental Care Team Croup
Founder: Control “Freaks”- A Group for Dentists Who Want to Smile More
https://www.facebook.com/groups/dentistscontrol
Control "Freaks" 
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