Chris Gardner, today 62, is an American entrepreneur, investor, stockbroker, motivational speaker, author, and philanthropist who, during the early 1980s, struggled with homelessness while raising his toddler son, Christopher, Junior. Gardner’s fortunes changed however, when he wrote a book of memoirs, The Pursuit of Happyness, first published in 2006. Today, he is CEO of his own stockbrokerage firm and resides between Chicago and Toronto.
Gardner has written much on his personal journey and has assembled ten steps towards success. Here are his rules.
Step 1: Commit to Plan A
When you are trying to do something that you are truly passionate about, there is no Plan B. Plan B sucks.
Step 2: Put family first
Step 3: Decide to be world-class
Strive to be the best you can be in what you are doing and be persistent.
Step 4: Have self-worth
Never confuse your net worth with your self-worth. Your net worth can fluctuate up and down but your self-worth should not. Who you are and your values, should never be negotiable, compromised and should never settle.
Step 5: Keep your team motivated
You have to respect those around you, let them grow and trust them. Then, you have to leave them alone.
Step 6: Change is necessary
Change is absolutely necessary for personal growth and it’s going to happen.
Step 7: Baby steps count
Baby steps count as long as you’re going forward.
Step 8: Follow your passion
Life is short. If you are doing something that you are not fully committed to, if you are doing something you are not passionate about, you are compromising yourself every day.
Step 9: Do whatever it takes
If you have a goal, if you have a dream, go after it. Don’t let anything stand in your way.
Step 10: Start where you are
Start from where you are and take those necessary steps to help you live your passion.
(ed. – Source http://www.leadgrowdevelop.com/chris-gardners-top-ten-rules-for-success-week-long-motivation-series-part-5/ )
.
Chris George, providing reliable PR counsel and effective advocacy. Need a go-to writer or experienced communicator? 613-983-0801 @ CG&A COMMUNICATIONS.
