“I am a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.”

                                                   – Thomas Jefferson –

People are always given opportunities but not everyone achieves success. Some people leave it all on luck to determine success while others are willing to burn the midnight oil. Luck is one of the things that help people land jobs, but being successful in those jobs is a different matter.

Why do some people get promotions over others? Why does it seem so easy for some people to rise from the ranks and get better deals?

Is it luck? Connections? Chance? Maybe, but one thing is for sure. These people work hard to become successful. These people do not leave everything to chance. They take action.

So, the question is, what can you do to achieve success? These five tips can lead you there.

1. Always have a “can do” attitude.

If you think positive, you attract positive energy. Your outlook on things determines the result of what you want to achieve. If you’re saying “you can’t” before even trying, chances are, you are setting yourself up for failure. A positive attitude coupled with determination, will make you succeed.

2. Never stop learning.

Learning is an infinite process. We learn something new every day. Knowledge is very powerful. Knowing more information about your industry and learning from what the experts in the field are saying, give you the edge to succeed. However, to guarantee success, you must put these learnings into action.

3. Create a personal elevator pitch.

Prepare to sell yourself in 30 seconds. Present your unique self and what you can do. Briefly state your best qualities and your accomplishments. End it by hooking your audience with a catchy and unforgettable statement.

4. Networking works.

Learn to network. The more connections you make, the more opportunities for you to expand your reach. This will put your people and social skills to the test. Put yourself out there and build relationships that can help you grow personally and professionally. Get as much inspiration from others as you can and inspire others as well with your own brand of unique. You can do this by starting with your own circle in the company, by joining groups, and by attending events.

5. Embrace new opportunities.

Opportunities are everywhere. You just have to learn to open the door when they start knocking. They come and go and if you don’t grab them, you might miss the best one yet for you. Don’t allow fear to get in the way. Take a leap of faith and allow it to take you to horizons that you have not been before. Take the first step and everything else will follow. Be wise, be confident, be fearless.

Success is hard work. You reap what you sow. Do not expect for success to come to you if you are not doing anything about it. It is never an easy path. You will fail and you will fall but it’s how you pick yourself up again and carry on that matters. That is how you achieve success.