The Key to Success

“Always surround yourself with people who are a lot smarter than you are.” - George Steinbrenner, owner of the New York Yankees


When I look at the success of my business over the last year I can't help but ask why, in this economy, am I successful? My business should be slow according to the statistics that marketing is the first thing to go in times of budget crunch. I attribute my success to surrounding my business with people smarter than myself. I challenge you to find someone in your life you can call upon for superior advice, an expert in your field.

As a teen my mother would always say, "Emily I know you don't understand right now why I'm saying this, but you will later. I'm older than you and I've been through this. I'm trying to protect you."

Me being the strong-willed young adolescent I was, I thought she was being controlling and she was ruining my social plans for the evening. Well, looking back, she was right! Yes mother you were right. :)

So, to make up for all those times I did not listen, I am now all ears when it comes to learning from others mistakes. Your "expert" has been there, done that and most likely would be more than willing to share those trials and tribulations with you.

You Raise Me Up…. Second key to success.

Not only have I elected to surround myself with people smarter than me with more experience, but I also surround myself with people/friends that will never break me down. They encourage me to do my best and never second guess my dreams. The power of visualization is so valuable. If you wake up every morning dreading getting out of bed I challenge you to re-program your brain. You lived through the night!!!! What a gift! Now you can go out and make a difference in the world.

So you say… well, Emily I don’t have a job that changes the world- That’s ok. Even if your day job is far from lifesaving, pick a non-profit to volunteer for and give back in the best way you can. You will meet new people and experience the joy of giving, which always brings success.

(The picture attached is me with my YouthFriend buddy.  If you need a suggestion for a non-profit that will change your life check out http://www.youthfriends.com/  or http://www.jacogotr.org/ both change lives every day)

In summation my keys to success: 1.) Find a mentor 2.) Surround your self with encouraging/positive cohorts.

Dream on.