The Underlying Secret to Success

When you look at a tree, your first thought is probably not, “Wow, what great roots!” The roots are the hidden support for the tree. Yet without those roots, there would be no tree, and certainly no fruit. The same is true of character and achievement. Character is the root, the support system for your entire life. Achievement is simply the visible fruit. However, since actions are visible and the qualities behind them are not always as obvious, character is often overlooked, despite the fact that it provides the foundation for consistent achievement.

Character growth differentiates the average from the outstanding. It is one of the most valuable parts of who you are. It will help you make wise decisions, act responsibly, and achieve true success.

Take Personal Responsibility to Grow

Character is the responsibility of every individual. No one can force you to develop character, and no one can develop character for you. Character development is a choice you must make for yourself.

There are many benefits to taking the time to develop character in your life. Stronger relationships, better communication, increased productivity, and more trust placed in you by your coworkers are just a few of the results of personal character development. Positive character growth results in good fruit.

Praise Character in Others

A simple way to invest in those within your organization is to praise their part in your success and the success of your organization. We all desire recognition for who we are, not just what we can do. In praising others and encouraging them to keep up the good work, point out the character behind their actions. Though this practice may require more thought, it will be more encouraging to your coworkers and fulfilling to yourself. Even when results do not meet expectations, a personís attitudes and efforts can indicate a positive commitment to what is right.

Instead of saying, “Superb job on closing that last sale!” or, “You are a good salesperson!” you can say, “You showed a lot of determination by sticking to the job until it was done!” Which would you rather hear? Which type of praise is more likely to motivate you as you move on to other projectsóknowing others see you as a good salesman, or knowing others think of you as a determined individual? It is vital to develop a habit of looking beyond the action (the fruit) to the character (the root). While achievements should not be ignored, an accomplishment should be recognized by praising the personís character. Encourage fulfillment and inspire progress in others by praising character in their lives.

Give Roots the Attention They Deserve

Until it develops a healthy root system, a tree will never reach its full potential. Similarly, you can have an unlimited amount of time, money, and training, but unless you are rooted in character, you will never reach your full potential.

Developing deep and healthy roots of character is a life-long task. Yet the fruit you will reap is worth all the time and hard work you invest. Achievement is the fruit that rewards those who plant seeds of character. The nature and quality of your character will determine the type of achievements that mark your life.

Character is at the root of every achievement. The discipline and effort put into developing your character will result in the fruit of good achievements. Poor character, however, will damage your work, family, and future.

Although building a successful life is not as simple as fertilizing a tree, the same principles apply. To have good fruit, you must develop a healthy root system.