I get asked all the time about how I got started in my business and grew my career. If you come a little closer and bring the screen close to your face (with or without a mask), I’ll tell you my secret. Ready?
Vision. Relentless persistence. Not knowing any other path.
Vision: I knew from the time I started running track in 6th grade that I wanted to pursue the science of athletic performance for a career. And I knew that coaching would be at the center of that career. Even if you decide on what you want to do as an adult, have a clear vision of what you want your career to look like and ask yourself why you want that.
Relentless persistence: Years ago, I was asked at a symposium to share my one piece of advice for people to be successful. I said, “relentless persistence.” Even when you fail and when people tell you no, you can’t ever give up. Keep showing up and following up a million times. Make yourself a pest. (I’m really good at this.)
Not knowing any other path: Much of my career goes back to when I was a kid. I got hooked on a subject and didn’t know or consider anything else. It’s not too late to focus on a passion when you’re an adult or even if you’re currently in another career. You just have to pretend (and believe) that there is no other path for you. When you don’t know any other path, you’re forced to laser focus on the path you choose.