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Recently, I read a wonderful quote from William A. Ward, American scholar, author, and pastor. Here’s the quote: “Four Steps to Achievement: Plan with Purpose. Prepare in Prayer. Proceed Positively. Pursue Persistently.”
In addition to the memorable alliterative nature of the quote, the bells rang in my head. For me, the quote epitomizes the true meaning of what it takes to have a successful career.
Let me explain.
First, “Plan on purpose.” How does this apply to your career?
You’ve probably heard the statement: “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll end up somewhere else.” Setting your career direction is the first and most critical decision you must make. How is it possible to achieve a goal unless you define it?
Ask yourself “What do I want?” You will find answers in your dreams, yearnings, the thoughts you have put on the shelf, and what naturally attracts you. Talk to people about what they do and if you find a profession interesting, ask more questions and do your research.
If you’ve decided that you want to move up in your organization, model your behavior and actions on top performers and learn how to use office politics and corporate culture to your advantage.
Second, “Prepare yourselves with prayer.”
Trust that you can and will get what you want. I mean have faith that with careful planning, hard work, and laser-like focus on your goal, it can become a reality. Focused intention is powerful.
When I was working in human resources at Squibb Corporation, I remember wanting so badly to be promoted to a recruiter position. My intention was strong and I worked diligently for 3 years, learning everything I could, asking for and taking on more responsibilities.
I was promoted shortly after. Yes, it was the realization of a dream that I was confident would happen. But I planned it. I asked what I wanted (from my boss and myself) and took tactical steps (learning to interview by signing up for classes and selecting candidates).
Faith coupled with planning is a winning combination.
Third, “Proceed positively.”
Once you’ve decided what you want and have carefully crafted a plan for accomplishing it, inform it with good thoughts and an optimistic attitude.
Have you ever noticed that it’s always the people who think they will succeed, the ones who do? This is no accident. Beyond the power of positive thinking, I truly believe that you can shape your destiny with your thoughts.
Start each day by thanking what you have and hope good things happen. Most of the time, they will.
Four, “Pursue persistently.”
Woody Allen once said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.”
Your target is often waiting for you around the corner after your latest setback. Just when you feel like your plan isn’t going to work because you’re tired or discouraged by a naysayer, it’s time to try one more time.
Of course, along the way, you may need to modify or refine the plan. That is being smart. Advice from a trusted mentor should be welcomed and incorporated into your action steps.
If your heart is telling you to proceed, listen to it. And take action every day.
What small, incremental steps can you take today to move your plan forward? Your new career is waiting for you!