How to be successful

When I came to live in Las Vegas, I started working with this guy named Jim. He was a smart guy and fairly ambitious, but other than that had no real advantages over the next guy. No college degree, no super high paying job (he was in the air force.) Now, he is retired from the AF, has a sweet job making good money (especially in this economy), just got his MBA, and is well positioned in his career for big things. So, what is his secret?

A love of learning.

As computer consultants, we see all sorts of different computer networks and programs. I remember Jim making a list of two things he encountered that day that he didn't know the answer. He would research them that evening, sometimes staying up late until he was sure he understood the concepts. The next day, he would come into work an expert on the subject. This went on for a year or so until the AF transferred him.

We kept in touch over the years from time to time, and he always seemed to have something he was working on to better himself and gain knowledge. Now, since he moved back to Las Vegas we get to hang out a bit more. Talking to him now, it is impressive what he has accomplished.

Makes me think--- What do I do in my spare time? Am I just wasting it watching tv or surfing the web? Getting caught up in the news, reading funny emails or watching youtube?

I think what we do in our spare time determines how successful we will be more than just about any other factor. Let's do those things that will move us closer to where we want to be, instead of what is easy in the moment.