In my mission to transform individuals into extraordinary versions of themselves, I have come to research, learn and adjust a lot about myself first to be able in turn to help others.

I put a big focus on leadership development and coaching, because, as many of you out there, I too, have had my fair share of “horrible bosses” which is such a blessing because each one of them taught me what NOT to do and how NOT to lead. 

In this blog my focus is self-improvement and leadership development and in this article, I take you through the 11 major causes of failure as depicted by Napoleon Hill in his book Think and Grow Rich. 

Napoleon Hill spoke of 30 such causes and to allow you time to think and apply, I have split them into three articles. This is the first set from 1 to 11.  

I believe that we are all “products” in development; imagine therefore, this as being your quality control checklist; the kind that you would use to de-bug the “product”, only this list produces YOU.0!

Read the list once, then read it again with more focus and then, I would suggest you solicit close friends to cross check your answers because this will keep you honest and shed light on any disillusionment.

Get Ready for a reality check and don’t stop exploring yourself.

1.    Unfavourable hereditary background. 

In todays world there is nothing that can’t be surmounted. Will and focus will allow you to overcome any difficulty. 

2.    Lack of a well defined purpose of life.

You can choose to just cruise by, or stop and think about what your aim really is. Setting a goal and defining your purpose and then proceeding to write it down to have a daily reminder. Seeing your goal clearly written will provide daily motivation and will help contribute to a positive mindset.  You can use additional support such as vision boards, mind maps or special agendas* to identify your purpose and stick to it. Or you can tap on the “Get In Touch” tab and fill in your details to get a consult call to start setting your goals and achieve your dreams 

3.    Lack of ambition to aim above mediocrity

I have seen way to many times people becoming complacent. “It is what it is” should not be your motto. Once you set goals, put in place actions to accomplish and reach them. Start with small goals then build them to become more ambitious. It's by being stretched that you know what you are capable of, so don't delay, dream big and act upon your dream. 

4.    Insufficient education.

This is not in reference to your college degree. You are not employed for your degrees but rather for what you do with that which you know! Start applying what you know and showcase your expertise.  

5.    Lack of self-discipline.

Discipline is as much sticking to a routine as it is exercising self-constraint. To be successful you must first be able to control your reactions to your environment. When you have mastered your own emotions and reaction, you shall be able to lead and have influence.  

6.    Ill health. 

One of the most important criteria for success is good health. You must indulge in physical exercise, meditation, healthy diet and proper breathing. You cannot imagine how much your gut can affects your mental health and mood. Also contributing to ill health is the constant state of connectivity were are in... Don't reach out to your phone as soon as you open your eyes in the morning and put it down in the evening. Spend some quality time with your family or indulge in a hobby. Real wealth is composed of Family, Fitness, and Freedom.  

7.    Unfavourable environmental influences

Environments mould people. Mirror neurons cause individuals to “copy” behavior that they observe. So is you are spending time around “horrible bosses” when it’s your turn to lead; chances are you will repeat the behavior you so despised. If you hang around negative people that shoot down your idea at every chance, you will find your mind reacts negatively to ideas when you generate them. It is crucial that you stay aware of your environment and try to create a favorable climate to foster wellbeing and a positive mood.  

8.    Procrastination.

There is no time like the present. Off course you must manage your priorities and deal with fires as they arise. With that said, keep in mind that priorities and fires aren't a deterrent to your goals. You will find that where there is procrastination, there will be failure. Point N.5 will help you overcome this.  

9.    Lack of persistence.

I have met many people with big dreams who have never taken the first step towards them. I have also seen many who start but never finish. It is tough to persevere in the face of adversity and although giving up seems to be the best solution, remember that failure does not coexist with persistence. If you are feeling doubtful, harness that emotion and use it to fuel your motivation; Thomas Edison did not see himself failing ten thousand times; rather he'd found ten thousand ways that won’t work.

10. Negative personality.

Opportunities shall come to those of a bubbly and charming nature. Make sure to check yourself and practice mindfulness. There is always a way to look positively at situations you are in. Being negative is a sure repellent of opportunities

11. Lack of Control over energy.

Emotions must be harnessed, whether anger, sexual urge, happiness, love, or doubt… all emotions are a source of energy that moves people into action. Control that energy and allow for it’s transmutation into your success. 

Final Thoughts: The 11 points mentioned in this article are a path way to help you discover yourself and identify elements that influence your attitude, wellbeing and thought process. Stay tuned for the next set of 10. Remember, everything is surmountable and Here’s Good News: You Can Make it! 

Written by Tarek Azmi. Founder of Here’s Good News, a training and development company dedicated to your personal and professional growth, offering learning modules, coaching sessions and personal training.

Like this blog? Sign-up at www.heresgoodnews.com and you will never miss a post. Fill in your details in the “get in touch” tab and receive a courtesy call to start building your dreams and achieving your goals and Here’s Good News: You Can Make It!

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Notes: 

• Napoleon Hill, "Think and Grow Rich", "Organised Planning", The Ralston Society, 1937, Ch. 7. 

• "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work" Thomas A. Edison 

• Passion Planners are a great source providing mind maps and guidance to set your goals https://passionplanner.com 

• Dave Ramsey, “The Total Money Makeover”, Dave Ramsey, 2010

• Photo credits soulsana @soulsana from https://unsplash.com

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