Do you measure success by internal standards, rather than by status symbols or material wealth? Do you enjoy the process of learning, accomplishing, and mastering? If so, you may have a high need for achievement. This personality trait is characterized by an enduring and consistent concern with setting and meeting high standards of accomplishment. The need for achievement motivates individuals to excel in activities imp...

The word, 'authenticity' comes from the Greek root authentikos, meaning 'original, genuine, principal.' Authentic people are genuine, self actualizing and have a sense of purpose. Along with fearless passion and courage, they possess strong mental discipline. Authenticity does not come from title, social stature, or wealth, but rather from how we live. That is, how we go about pursuing our purpose and making a contribu...

Do you look at the bright side of life and anticipate good fortune and success? Or, do you feel that you are missing something when it comes to good luck and fortune? Do you have winning personality traits? Answer “Yes” or “No” 1. I expect to win. 2. I often follow my intuition. 3. I see the bright side of a problem. 4. I seize opportunities in unexpected situations. 5. I'm open to...

Are you wondering whether you should make changes in your career -- and life, or stay put? You know that something’s missing but you can’t put your finger on it! Are you satisfied with your job? Respond 'yes' or 'no:' 1. Is your body sending you messages? Do you have lingering colds? Trouble getting up work days? 2. Are you constantly thinking, “I can hardly wait till Friday?” 3. Do yo...

Do you identify closely with your job? Are your moods and feelings affected by your work? Are you involved in your job? Job involvement refers to the psychological and emotional extent to which people participate in their work, profession and company. Top performers who are engaged in their work generally have high levels of job involvement. Studies show high job involvement contributes to high job satisfaction, employee...

Do you make great first impressions at job interviews or business meetings? Do you present yourself professionally when making phone, fax, e-mail or videoconference contacts? First impressions are critical. Research suggests that people evaluate others within the first minute. Decisions are usually based on appearance, posture, speech and demeanor. First impressions last. Many business transactions are won or lost in th...

What kind of career assistance did you receive when you were in high school? What kind of help are young people you know getting? What can you do to help? Mavis, a recent law graduate, doesn't want to practice law. But what to do? Mark, a grade 12 student, wants to take a year off before completing any post high training. His parents are upset. The dilemmas of Mavis and Mark are common. Being undecided about caree...

Are you a good listener? Do others feel comfortable talking to you? Listening skills are crucial for personal and professional success. Unfortunately, studies suggest that about 25 percent of us listen efficiently. Ineffective listening affects productivity and morale. Faulty listening habits can alienate customers, damage relationships, and cause people to miss appointments and misinterpret suggestions. Managers, w...

Kevin's first try at establishing his sportswear store failed. After re-evaluating his experience, he opened another store. Kevin is now the proud owner of four successful sportswear stores. Kevin didn’t fail in his first attempt. Failure occurs when we quit or stop trying. Kevin has perseverance. He kept improving his products and services. Perseverance is the key to success. After thousands of efforts to m...

Questers - Excerpt 3 Adulthood is not a plateau; it is a time of change. Adults continue to grow and develop throughout life—mentally, psychologically, interpersonally, and spiritually. Recent studies describe adult growth and development as a cycle that follows an underlying, universal path. Many influences along the way shape this course. They may produce alternate routes or detours, they may speed up or slow dow...