Starting with today’s entry I will be sharing my answers to questions submitted to my “Ask The Coach” column in a local business journal. The irony of this is that effective coaching is built on asking the right questions, rather than answering them. However, my “Ask The Coach” entries seem to have been effective “primers”, helping people begin to see problems and questions in new and helpful ways. For some, they begin to understand how professional coaching services can have a profound effect in their work and lives. I hope you find these entries helpful, too.

Today’s Question: Is there a secret to success?

Have you truly defined success? Is it your own definition – or what the “world” expects of you? Successful people set their own goals considering what others say but deciding on what they want to do with their lives. Another common difference between “successful” and unsuccessful people is that unsuccessful people prioritize their schedules and successful people schedule their priorities. Of course, the “secret” lies in truly knowing your priorities. Better yet, the secret is being clear about your priorities – where you are now, what you deeply desire to have, do and become.

You exist to serve. The secret to success begins with getting clear on who and how you serve.

What is of greatest importance to you right now? Every moment you spend trying to remember what is important can cost you time, money and emotional energy. So successful people clarify what success looks like, feels like, and sounds like in their own terms. Their priorities are stabilized by balance among them and purified by strong beliefs that support them. They make decisions and act daily based on their own predetermined goals, which creates direction and ultimately a unique sense of purpose. Clarity leads to commitment, and commitment leads to satisfaction, peace of mind, creativity, pleasure, powerful relationships, wealth…or however you want to define your own success. You exist to serve. The secret to success begins with getting clear on who and how you serve.

If you have a question or issue that you would like me to address, send it to askthecoach@pdncoach.com or respond to my blog.