The Simplest Secret To Success

Occam’s razor is a principle stated by the Scholastic philosopher William of Ockham (1285–1347/49). Now, before you quit reading, this is not one of those philosophical rants. But, for nearly 700 years, Occam’s razor has consistently proven its value to those that pay attention. In layman’s terms, the principle states the simplest solution is usually the best solution. In other words, we always try to make things too hard. On the other hand, suppose there is a simple or obvious solution to an issue. In that case, we often blow it off, thinking, ironically, that the simple answer is, well, too simple and therefore cannot be correct.

Let’s apply the razor principle to our thinking about what it takes to be successful and wealthy. It’s not complicated. Many have studied this question and came to the same conclusion. The single most significant factor that sets the mega-successful apart from everyone else is a singular ability to be disciplined and learn with a definitive purpose.

The problem is how most business owners think about learning. Many business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives look at learning as a “when and if I get to it” activity.

They couldn’t be more wrong.

I believe that learning should be approached in the same way that a world-class athlete views training. A world-class athlete schedules their training meticulously and measures everything they do. They’re obsessed with improving their personal best. They seek out and get guidance from the best trainers, peers, and coaches in the world. They don’t practice just to practice. They always practice with the sole purpose to improve.

Any person in business then should then think of themselves as a business athlete. You should not read business articles, read business books, or go to business seminars and workshops just to say you went. Instead, it would be best if you did all of that with the single goal of improving your skills, understanding, and business knowledge.

A business athlete should schedule learning like a world-class athlete schedule their training. Learn with intent and purpose. Learn what the world business leaders do and then replicate what they do. Study the best of the best in your field. Read what they read. Listen to the same podcasts, attend the same seminars or workshops, read the same blogs and newsletters, and in the end, commit to doing it better!

Success and wealth is a mindset that goes hand in hand. You can go to one seminar or read one business book and try to make the information last a lifetime, or you can learn for a lifetime and dominate your chosen profession.

Now, once again, let’s apply the principle of Occam’s Razor, and the answer is simple. Learn for a lifetime and then watch most of your peers wonder what your “secret” is. It is as simple as that.