Regardless of your profession, trade, or status in life, being regarded as successful is often "in the eye of the beholder." Success can be defined in many ways, depending on your value system and influences of those who you deem important in your life. There are also three very fundamental components of achievement that transcend all definitions and are as readily attainable as the air we breathe. In fact the only requirement is to recognize them and then take advantage of their proven attributes.

A - Alignment
Many 'disconnects' in successful careers, relationships, and life in general occur when there are significant misalignments of your personal values and goals with that of an employer, an industry, a friend or a spouse. In today’s age of ‘political correctness’ and compromise, we’re encouraged to 'tolerate' and 'bend' to actions, beliefs, conducts, and arrangements that are simply contrary to our core beliefs. When this happens, there is an automatic sense of frustration, mistrust, and anger that never leads to a successful outcome. Beware of situations and people that don’t coincide with your value system or goals. This may be viewed as selfish, but if you’re not seeking to make genuinely compatible situations, you’re doomed to being miserable.

I - Integrity
There is nothing more central to being consistently successful than being someone that can be trusted. Someone who is dependable and honest will not only "sleep better at night," but will find that incredible opportunities seem to come out of nowhere. People seek out people they can depend on to 'do the right thing' and behave in a manner that is honorable. This holds true in business and personal dealings and, without a doubt leads, to success.

R - Relationships
The only way to achieve any degree of success is to be recognized by other people. Even the most isolated researcher will eventually need to have their work reviewed by someone or a group of people. Relating to others begins at birth and never ends. Those who honor the privilege of having others bring them into their lives and circles of influence will be rewarded. Those who recognize customers, vendors, relatives, and friends as being critical to their growth and ultimate achievement, will reap the rewards.

Acknowledging that nothing of significance is ever attained without the influence, support, or patronage of another will launch an incredible future of success.

These are fundamental truths that are undeniable. Recognize and embrace them and success will be yours.

Success is within your REACH!