So what’s the secret, the big idea, the insiders tip? Start working harder!

Yeah maybe not what you wanted to hear but today more than ever that is what will separate you from your competition.  I got this email recently from a very successful entrepreneur, Bruce Forbes, that reminded me of this.  Bruce has had great success throughout his business career and as a result recently bought a Lazzara yacht.  Here is what he had to say.

Hi Rich,
Just letting you know I do read your emails and find them very wise and agree with most of them.
Today, I find myself working harder to make less…Whenever the economy turns around that will change.
Those that are willing to accept that condition for now and compromise will succeed…It’s hard to do…but a must.
Regards,
Bruce Forbes

What makes it even tougher is that today you may not see results from working harder.  However that is exactly the key to success.  The person who works harder now, the one who fights through the downturn, that’s the one who will persevere.

Today many people are looking for the quick idea, the shortest path to success.  The bottom line is that there isn’t one.  There is no substitute for working harder than the next person. Some entrepreneurs can get hung up on other parts of the “success” equation.  They think in order to beat the competition they need to develop a better widget, have a new idea, wait for the perfect timing or out think everyone.

The fact is, even with all of that,  if you’re not working harder than the next person it’s meaningless.  Given the choice between talent and working harder I will take the person that works harder every time.