Welcome to the Deploy Yourself Newsletter, where I gently provoke you to show you your own power. This newsletter is an invitation to your leadership. You can also read this issue online.
Hey,
The Simple Art of Long-Term Success
Do you ever wonder what sets apart those who achieve lasting success from those who fall short?
Since I grew up not having much, I have been fascinated by the above question since childhood.
In my teens and early twenties, I got enthralled by our usual definitions of success – work hard, push ourselves and others, do not show weakness, do whatever it takes and become ruthless.
On this journey, I tasted success and met many successful people who have “made it”.
And yet, I never found real happiness, satisfaction or joy.
And when I dug deeper into the lives of those who were successful, I found them miserable – and yes, I am talking about millionaires and even a few billionaires.
It’s time to shift our perspective and adopt a mindset that guarantees long-term success – which is not just about results but also the kind of life we live. If we are not joyful, healthy, feel proud, and take meaning from what we do every day, is it even success?
In my book, it is DEFINITELY not that.
You can stop reading if that is a success for you.
Today, I want to challenge you to think differently about your success and embrace a few simple strategies that will propel you to new heights.
Here’s my winning formula for success (the way I define it):
- Goals: Decades – Set your sights on grand, audacious goals that span decades. Think beyond immediate gains and envision the legacy you want to create. And it has to matter to you on a deeper personal level. Powerful goals which you do not care about create SCAMS, not a LIFE.
- Strategy: Yearly – Craft a strategic roadmap that aligns with your long-term vision. Each year, evaluate and adjust your trajectory to stay on course. The reason to think yearly is to measure progress, not to become rigid and never change.
- Tactics: Quarterly – Break down your strategy into actionable quarterly plans. Stay agile and adapt as needed, keeping your finger on the pulse of the ever-changing business landscape. Live life in powerful chunks of 90 days.
- Effort: Daily – Success is not an overnight phenomenon; it requires consistent daily effort. Commit yourself to relentless execution and discipline, even on the toughest days. Practice over performance.
The above will help you outlast everybody. This is how you defy the odds.
In a world filled with those seeking instant gratification and quick wins, keep it simple and plan for the long haul.
While others come and go, you’ll remain steadfast, building momentum with each passing day.
As I said it, it is SIMPLE.
BUT
SIMPLE is not the same as EASY
Consistent daily action is where the rubber meets the road.
Where in your life will you start applying the above?
Hit reply to share your answers.
I read and respond to every reply.
Fascinating Articles & Stories
One
New interviews on the Choosing Leadership podcast
Since I have not written to you for 2 weeks, here are all the interviews that have been published since then on the podcast.
Bookmark them and listen at your leisure.
- I learned from Abhinav & Raghav Aggarwal that “You are the sum of all the things you do daily”
- I learned from Michael McFall that “It is on YOU to earn the right to lead”
- I learned from Sanjay Kaul that “I’m not here by design, I am here by default.”
- I learned from Stefany Barker that “Things are hard, but they can be under control”
Two
Curated resources for your leadership
Here are my best finds from all over the internet for your leadership. Make yourself tea/coffee as you read, listen and learn.
Pro-tip – Listen and read the below about YOU – not about the author. (reply back and ask if you do not understand what that means)
- 3 Stories from My Impossible Life : From Outcast to Entrepreneur
- How to revive your sense of wonder – from Psyche.co
- The Art of Self-Awareness: A Founder’s Guide to Assessing Strengths and Weaknesses
That’s it for now. If you have any questions or feedback, or if you are new and want to introduce yourself, hit reply. I read and respond to every reply. All the best,
Sumit
P.S. – I am looking to interview more inspirational leaders on my podcast. If you know anyone I should interview, make an introduction.
(Twitter) @SumitGupta
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