Right Attitude is the Key to Success

Hi there..

This is an old article written by Hari Bedi in Asian Business magazine dated January 1996. Have been kept for so long, for almost 20 years, tonight I decided to take some effort to get it typed and share it with you...you out there..enjoy reading..

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The New Year is a good time to think about improving our lives.  But making a couple of New Year's resolutions may not help much.  What we  often need is totally new way of thinking - something inspirational and passionate. Kazuo  Inamori's formula for success may be just what we need.

Named twice as Japan's most effective manager, he believes that even average people can achieve remarkable success, through the combination of three simple ingredients: Ability, Effort and Attitude. The secret of his success formula for outstanding results lies in multiplying, not simply adding, these three items together.

Inamori says that gifted people - who often rely on their talents alone to carry them to success - may not be as successful as average, hard-working people with the right attitude.  Low marks for talent multiplied by high marks for effort and attitude will produce higher scores.

Our abilities - health, talents and innate aptitude - may largely be hereditary.  But the greatest ability of all is the ability to overcome oneself.  Instead of pretending we can do what we really can't, we should admit what we cannot do and start from there.

The ideal person, says Inamori, is someone who is both hold and sensitive, who has mastered their instincts, and who can focus their intellect to the point where they start to become inspired. They must also have sufficient 'strength of soul', in essence a sense of direction, without which they can easily become a slave to their talents.

Effort makes today's impossibility become tomorrow's reality.  People must have tenacity and perseverance to succeed.  They must pursue their goals with a desperate desire.  They should make an effort to cultivate a sound body for a sound mind.  As leaders, they should infuse their energy into subordinates until they burn with passion.

A positive attitude is the supreme quality, says Inamori.  None of us can be completely free from anguish and worry.  But even in our worst moments, we should try not to lose our cheerfulness.  We should seek righteousness and always ask ourselves: "What is the right thing for a human being to do?"

We should always base our judgement and conduct on fundamental truths and principles.  The easy way does not usually lead us to our goal.  A person who is steeped in jealousy, resentment or hatred cannot hope to achieve success.  In Inamori's formula, a person with a negative attitude is negative overall - and hence unsuccessful.

Although Inamori present his formula as the core message in his book, A Passion for Success, there are other determinants of success or failure.  In the drama of life, there is a huge difference between those who have written themselves a starring role, and those who idle through lfe without aim.

Our lives are not determined by our destiny at birth, says Inamori.  Destiny can be altered by raising our minds and way of thinking. Unlike a play that must lead to a predetermined conclusion, the outcomes of our lives are in our own hands. We can make life hell or heaven - it depends on our attitude.  

In hell, there's a giant cooking pot filled with delicious noodles.  But the chopsticks are a metre long - too long to manoeuvre the noodles into the mouth.  So everybody goes hungry.  In heaven, it's the same except that each person picks up the noodles with the long chopsticks and offers them to someone on the other side of the pot.  Through their unselfish minds, they enjoy eternal bliss.

Not a bad New Year message.

10 Attitudes of Successful Workers

By Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Editor

Why do some people seem to reach the top of the corporate ladder easily, while others remain stuck on the middle-management rung? You might think that it is just because those people have more of what it takes to succeed, like brains, talent and powerful people in their corner. But there is something else that is just as important: attitude.

Dr. Martin Seligman, an authority on optimism, discovered that attitude was a better predictor of success than I.Q., education and most other factors. He found that positive people stay healthier, have better relationships and go further in their careers. And he even found that positive people make more money.

Anyone can adopt the right attitude. No matter where you are from or how much innate talent you have, the right attitude can make a difference in your career. Try adopting these 10 attitudes of successful workers:

1. I am in charge of my destiny.
If you spend your entire career waiting for something exciting to come to you, you will be waiting a long time. Successful professionals go out and make good things happen. So commit yourself to thinking about your career in an entirely different way. You will make it to the top, and you are in charge of making it happen.

2. Anything is possible.
Think that there is no way you will ever be at the vice-president level? Then you definitely won't. Remember: If you think you can't, you probably won't. Adopt the attitude of The Little Engine That Could -- "I think I can."

3. No task is too small to do well.
You never know when you are going to be noticed. That is one reason to take pride in your work -- all of it. One public relations executive in Chicago said that her first task in the PR department of a ballet company was reorganizing the supply closet. She tackled the project with gusto and was immediately noticed for her hard work and attention to detail. Remember this the next time you feel like slacking because you are working on a menial task.

4. Everyone is a potential key contact.
While you do need to be aggressive in the workplace, you can also go far by being nice to those around you. Do you think it's unimportant to establish a good rapport with your boss's secretary? Well, just try getting your meeting squeezed onto the schedule when you really need it. Be courteous to those around you -- you never know when your past contacts will play a role in your future.

5. I was made to do this job... and the one above me.
If you spend your days feeling like you are not cut out to do the work you are responsible for, your performance will suffer. Your job may not be the perfect fit, but successful workers act like they are in their dream job, no matter where they are.

6. It's not just what I know, but who I know.
Successful workers understand the importance of networking, both in and out of the office. You need to proactively establish professional contacts. Invite a colleague out to lunch. Go to the after-work happy hour. Join your professional association. Do your part to establish a networking path for your future.

7. What else can I do?
Since you are in charge of your destiny, it's your job to look for ways to improve your professional self. Volunteer to take on an extra project. Learn a new skill that will make you more marketable. Stay late to help your co-workers. Successful workers don't just complete the job and sign out -- they look for additional ways to make their mark.

8. Failure will help pave the way to my success.
While it seems like some people never experience setbacks, the truth is everyone fails from time to time. The difference between successful and unsuccessful people is how they deal with failure. Those who find success are the ones who learn from mistakes and move on.

9. I am my own biggest fan.
Have you been waiting for someone in the office to recognize your talents and efforts? Maybe it's time you start tooting your own horn. Step up and talk about your accomplishments and what you have done for the company. Successful workers know how to point out their achievements without sounding boastful.

10. My opportunity monitor is never turned off.
Yes, there will be days when you will want to just be happy with the status quo. But remember that successful workers are always on the lookout for opportunities to improve. Keep your eyes, ears and your mind open to new opportunities -- you never know when you will discover the one that will change the course of your career!

Rules For Success

The value of time.

The success of perserverance.

The pleasure of working.

The dignity of simpliciy.

The worth of character.

The power of kindness.

The influence of example.

The obligation of duty.

The wisdom of economy.

The virtue of patience.

The improvement of talent.

The joy of originating.

Eight Traits of Success

Your chances of succeeding at anything you attempt may depend on being:

A Dreamer who can visualise your success by focusing more on what you want to happen than on what you fear may happen.

Disciplined enough to set goals and priorities and devise plans - flexible enough to change those plans when a new opportunity arises.

Dedicated enough to know that success demands total commitment and contagious enthusiasm that motivates others.

Decisive enough to make more decisions and to make them more quickly.

Daring enough to risk more, to welcome change and to view mistakes as a chance to learn.

Devoted to a programme of life-long learning and self-improvement that finds you constantly learning new skills and developing more interests.

Dependable to a fault, always keeping your promises to yourself and others.

A Delegator who knows that time is best spent doing what you do best - not trying to do everything yourself.

Five Steps to Stay Ahead

1. Keep Abreast of New Developments

Your own personal education shouldn't stop once you've left the hallowed halls of university or college. To be at the head of the resume queue, it's important to know exactly what is happening in your field. Subscribe to magazine, newspapers and periodicals to keep informed - take courses, seminars and attend conference to update your know-how.

2. Go Back to School

It's never too late to get that degree or even a PhD. If the only thing stopping you changing careers, moving up the career ladder or achieving your ideal salary is the lack of letters after your name, then check out adult education and evening classes in your areas.

Classes are offered in all kinds of skills - whether it's computers, pottery or ballet - so broaden your skills and widen your career chances.

3. Be Computer Literate

If you expect to be able to compete in today's job market, you must have a basic grasp of computers, from word processing to Windows to using the Internet and feeling comfortable with e-mail.

If technology scares you, check out the number of informal classes in the territory where you can join others with techno-fear and fill in those gaps in your computer knowledge.

4. Network

There's always an opportunity to meet people who might be useful in your search for a new job. At conferences and seminars make a point of introducing yourself to others and get to know what they do.

Even if you are timid by nature, see every new person you meet as an ally in your search for a new job. When you go for a job interview, your contacts might be one of the things that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Don't, however, use your contacts for your own personal gain. People will most likely see through you and do not appreciate being used.

5. Get A New Image

Your appearance is the first thing your colleagues, clients and potential employers notice. If you have been neglecting your image, it's time to take a new look at yourself. Get a trusted friend to give you an honest opinion on your looks and what clothes suit you.

Get a manicure and pedicure once a week and check out cosmetic companies' free makeover offers to keep updated on the latest colours.

On The Path to Success

In this age of constant changes, and sometimes at breakneck speed, can success in your career be guaranteed? It can be, when you take a look at the profile of consistent high performers.

In my interviews and meetings with high performers, I have discovered that they share these common traits:

1. Positive attitude and mindset
2. Extraordinary work ethic & personal traits
3. Excellent skills set
4. 360 degree on-the-job knowledge


What is wonderful about them is that you can control your level of achievement for each one. To begin with, you need a no-holds-barred analysis of your current self with regard to these categories. From here, you can then go on to identify the specific areas you need to work on to enhance your performances.

1. Positive attitude and mindset

You have probably heard this from many management gurus, However, have you really done anything about it? Involve others to help you derive an accurate analysis so you can balance up your perspective of your own attitude.

Your attitude can make or break you. In this new age of intensified competition and constant changes in the workplace, many of us are highly charged emotionally and constantly stretched. However, these ‘stresses’ may be simply overcome by tweaking our attitude and mindset.

First, recognize that a negative attitude is often the result of frustration. Having a positive attitude is not easy, especially when challenges mount one after another. But this is when a positive mind-set becomes invaluable. We can consciously develop ways of thinking that put us in control. Take time off everyday to review and reflect on the day’s doing; what we have done today and what we could have done in a different and more productive and effective way. Think thorough and map out your strategies so you are better ready to overcome it the next time these challenges come along. Such is the power of reflection. It does not matter if we fall, what is important is that we do not fall into the same hole twice.

It is okay to feel down; everyone does at one time or another. It is how you pick yourself up that can make all the difference in the world. Ask yourself: “What can I do that will be to my best advantage?”


2. Extraordinary work ethic

What exactly does “extraordinary” mean? I define it this way: Do whatever it takes to get the results you want and/or need without compromising your integrity or hurting others. Doing whatever it takes means a number of different things. It can mean:

* Starting earlier in the day
* Devoting time to plan and execute the task
* Scheduling time for important and urgent things as well those that are not urgent but important
* Following through on all projects
* Thinking of new ways to become more effective and efficient in the things you do
* Continuing to give your best efforts throughout the day, especially when you have had success early in the day
* Remembering and following the classic motto “I will do one more task”


3. Excellent skills set

Make learning a way of life. Plan your learning and carry them out. If you deem something as important, you will find the time to accomplish it. Most times when we go into a slump, the problem starts with getting away from the basics. Check and re-check your foundation skills, go back to the basics and review how you are performing from time to time. Do not wait till the end of the year and be shocked by your appraisals. Take inventory of your skills set and identify what else you need to learn to take you to the next level of performance.

Once you have determined your proficiencies in each area you can list the skills that need improvement. Discuss them with your manager and your colleagues. Get their recommendations on how to achieve excellence.

Utilise resources that will enable you to stay informed or learn new skills. Use books, audios, video, on-line services and distance-learning opportunities. There is a whole menu of learning tools available for use anywhere. Target at least one resource to keep you up-to-date and refresh on all aspects of your profession.

Continually successful professionals never think they know it all. They know that excellent foundational skills are critical to their success. They are also eager to learn from customers, associates, colleagues or self-directed initiatives and find ways to say sharp.

4. 360-degree on-the-job knowledge

You need and should know everything and anything about your position and your job. This includes knowing why your job was created, what it does and how it contributes to the overall ecology of your department and organization. When you know these foundational information, you can then analyse and work on crafting out an edge for yourself – what you can do to add value to the job and tasks that you currently do.

Surface knowledge just won’t cut it. Total knowledge gives you the solid foundation to not just perform, but perform at the peak or at the very least, perform at a level that is way above what you are doing now – Source: ST/ANN

Article by Dr Billy Kueek, a motivational speaker. He is the author of Unleash Your Potential

The Man by the Window

Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an hour each afternoon to help drain the fluid from his lungs. His bed was next to the room's only window.

The other man had to spend all his time flat on his back. The men talked for hours on end. They spoke of their wives and families, their homes, their jobs, their involvement in the military service, where they had been on vacation. And every afternoon when the man in the bed by the window could sit up, he would pass the time by describing to his roommate all the things he could see outside the window.

The man in the other bed began to live for those one-hour periods where his world would be broadened and enlivened by all the activity and color of the world outside. The window overlooked a park with a lovely lake. Ducks and swans played on the water while children sailed their model boats. Young lovers walked arm in arm amidst flowers of every color of the rainbow. Grand old trees graced the landscape, and a fine view of the city skyline could be seen in the distance.

As the man by the window described all this in exquisite detail, the man on the other side of the room would close his eyes and imagine the picturesque scene. One warm afternoon, the man by the window described a parade passing by. Although the other man couldn't hear the band, ­he could see it in his mind's eye as the gentleman by the window portrayed it with descriptive words. Days and weeks passed.

One morning, the day nurse arrived to bring water for their baths only to find the lifeless body of the man by the window, who had died peacefully in his sleep. She was saddened and called the hospital attendants to take the body away. As soon as it seemed appropriate, the other man asked if he could be moved next to the window. The nurse was happy to make the switch and after making sure he was comfortable, she left him alone.

Slowly, painfully, he propped himself up on one elbow to take his first look at the world outside. Finally, he would have the joy of seeing it for himself. He strained to slowly turn to look out the window beside the bed. It faced a blank wall. The man asked the nurse what could have compelled his deceased roommate who had described such wonderful things outside this window. The nurse responded that the man was blind and could not even see the wall. She said that perhaps he just wanted to encourage you.

There is tremendous happiness in making others happy, despite our own situations. Shared grief is half the sorrow, but happiness when shared, is doubled.
-Source Unknown

"Happiness when shared, is doubled." It couldn't be much more simple than that, could it? Make it a goal to share your happiness with others - family, friends, and those around you. Each day, try to share some of your happiness with at least three other people. After all, doubling your happiness is a winning proposition for everyone!"