Preparation, Focus, and Consistency are the Keys to Success

Preparation, focus, and consistency are the keys to success in anything. When these three pillars of excellence are executed correctly and with fidelity, any task can be accomplished.

Everything starts with preparation. When you are approaching a big challenge such as a job interview or a new fitness plan, it pays to prepare. Study the subject at hand. Read books and articles about the job. Listen to podcasts about best practices and learn from the experience of others. 

Always remember that success leaves clues. Study others who have done what you want to do and model their approach. If you have the ability to do so, you should seek out those with experience and pick their brains to get the best information.

Visualization is another very powerful tool that you should include in your preparation repertoire. Visualize yourself nailing the interview or performing the task to perfection over and over again in your head. This primes the subconscious to feel as though you already have the skills and conditioning to accomplish the feat. 

Focus is another absolute must for success. Keep your focus lasered in on your task and you will increase your chances for success. What does it mean to have lethal focus? It means your task is all that matters in the world to you – it is the equivalent of your life, itself. If you were dropped in the middle of the ocean what would your focus be on? It would be on paddling and keeping your head above the water.

Consistency is the last foundational brick in the structure of excellence and it is where most people who are unsuccessful fall short. You must be consistent with your work. Show up every single day and do your best. Even on those days you don’t feel at your best, show up. Doing a lesser job consistently is better than not doing it at all.