I was recently interviewed on a local radio station, and the host asked me a question that often makes me uncomfortable. He asked if I really am a millionaire. Every time I’m asked that question I hesitate to give a real response, and I’ll tell you a story that explains why.When I was in my mid twenties, I had a friend/mentor that I was in complete awe of. To me, his success was simply astounding. Over the years, he taught me a good deal about business, and I always valued his advice. One day I asked him “Do you think there’s a chance I will ever be as successful as you?” His response was simple, “I don’t think so.” I’ll never forget that moment. He said it so matter of fact, as if he was on such a high level that I would never even be able to touch the same success in my own life.By the time I turned 30, I had lost touch with my mentor. I had moved on from his comment and was quickly moving toward my goals. Fast forward to a few years later, I actually bumped into him at a social event. He looked quite surprised to see me, and even appeard a bit nervous. I asked how he was doing, and he didn’t have much to say. He did, however, acknowledged that he had been following my success through the media. He knew all about my accomplishments and was quite impressed. I guess he too remembered his comment from so many years back, because after our conversation, he made one last comment as he was walking away: “I suppose I spoke to quickly. You have become more successful than I am.”
The reason I’m sharing this is to illustrate my point of someone else’s status and wealth not being all that important. There are a lot of people that are held back by nothing more than the comments of a friend or acquaintance. What that gentleman said to me caught me off guard. At the time, I began to think that being super successful was an unattainable gaol. Luckily, I was able to move beyond those thoughts and reach my goals, but not everyone is so fortunate. It’s up to you whether or not you overcome these kinds of comments and become successful.
So I’ll say to you what I always think when I’m asked if I’m a millionaire; it doesn’t matter how successful I am, it matters how successful you want to be, and how hard you’re willing to work to get there. Forget about my status or anyone else’s status, and focus on your own. There are definitely people out there reading this post that will become a lot more successful than I am. I’m sure of it. You just have to be patient and focus on what is important to you, and you too can achieve the success of your dreams.
Good luck, and happy hunting.
Aaron
To learn more about Aaron LaPedis, visit www.thegaragesalemillionaire.com or contact him at [email protected].
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