Sometimes we feel that we would like to change something about our lives, but we simply do not know where to start. When I first started discovering the self-help world, my biggest problem was the absence of clear and do-able instructions of what I had to do to “take control of my time”, to “stop procrastinating”, to “find my passion”. I realized that if I wanted to improve my quality of life I had to start eating healthier, working harder and sticking longer with my goals, but the question was always the same “How will I do that?”

You might be asking yourself the same questions right now, feeling uncertain about what action steps to take in order to attain real and consistent positive results in most areas of your life.

I will not offer you the ‘hidden secrets’ of a happy life or the ‘magic bullet’ of success, but I can give you 4 Clear Action Steps that do not require drastic lifestyle changes, yet will noticeably improve your life:

1. Choose the least crowded road to success

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I –
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.”
- Robert Frost

In our life we are often faced with the choice: to take an easy path or to take the right path. Most people choose the easy path. But you are not “most people”. You are unique and if you want to stand out from that crowded road – follow your heart, even if it means taking the road less traveled. It may seem tough and strenuous at first, but it really is the shortcut to your personal and professional growth and success!

Action step: Think of what you believe other people expect of you. Now think about what you would like to do. Is there a mismatch between your own dreams and other people’s expectations? If so, think of what you can do to resolve it?

2. Always Have a Plan

Do you know how in every action movie, the “cool guy” always has a plan? Do you have one?

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There is one thing that I dislike more than cleaning behind the refrigerator and it is waiting and not being sure of the outcome. Do you know what I am talking about?

Since we were little we have been taught to search for instant solutions, quick fixes and immediate results.

I recently read about an experiment where four-year-olds were given a marshmallow, then left by themselves in a room and asked not to eat it until after the researcher got back. If they resisted, they were given a second marshmallow as a reward for their patience. What do you think happened? Most of the children ate their candy after 30 seconds! Later research uncovered that the kids, who were able to resist the temptation did much better at school as well as becoming a lot more successful in life.

As it turns out, while instant gratification promises immediate rewards, it often becomes the main cause of our life failures and here is why:

1. Most people fail to follow through with their goals because they expect immediate results of their actions and if this does not happen they get discouraged and move on to the next goal.
2. The number one reason why so many people struggle to stay fit and lose weight is that they succumb to food cravings and give up on their weight-loss plan.
3. Most relationships fall apart not because two people look for momentary happiness but that they have no patience working things out when relationship or financial difficulties begin.

People that I call “Delayed Gratification Seekers” lead happy, fulfilling lives, and become financially successful not because they are more intelligent and talented than most, but because they are willing to wait and stick with their goals longer than the other 70% of the population!

But what about those, who are impatient by nature, those who would think “the heck with it!” and eat the marshmallow right away (like myself)?

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Success is not reserved to a few selected individuals. It belongs to you as well, given that you are willing to go after it. But before you do, take 3 minutes to learn the Ten most important Success Commandments that stand at the base of any prosperous venture, any rewarding relationships, and any inspiring goal:

1. Thou shalt dream a great dream

Every important achievement always starts with a great dream. Do not settle for less, just because it is easy, familiar and guaranteed. At some point in your life you will have to face a decision to either risk it and go for an opportunity or settle for less than you know you are capable of achieving. Set goals that inspire, challenge, and excite you! This is the only way to leave your mark in this world!

2. Thou shalt do what thou loves

Success does not solely imply financial security and a handsome paycheck at the end of the month. It is about self-realization and enjoyment as well.

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