what's different about you?

I have learned a lot of lessons in my life, most of them pretty self explanatory. You know, always be prepared. Look both ways before crossing the street. Don't eat yellow snow.

When I made the decision to start my own business I knew it would be a good fit. I have always been a creative person, and most of all, I like making my own decisions instead of being told what to do. Both of my parents are successful entrepeneurs, so it just seemed natural to go in this direction. It hasn't been easy, but again, I've learned many lessons along the way.

In my search for success I have studied and learned from a variety of different people. If  given the opportunity I will ask them what they think sets them apart from others- in other words, what is different about you? Why are you successful when others are not? Of course there are a million factors that come in to play when defining success, but in general I've been able to determine some common factors among successful people. 

Sure, I could write a list a mile long, but from what I can see it all comes down to one word. Discipline. Every single successful person I know, whether it be a business owner, athlete, student, you name it, will say the same thing. What sets them apart is their personal discipline and ability to remain focused on their goal. It doesn't matter if you're training for a marathon, learning a new skill, losing weight, or running for President. Discipline makes all the difference in the world.

With my company Office Buzz I am proud to work with some of the most successful Sales Directors and National Sales Directors in all of Mary Kay. I feel so honored to be able to work side by side with these women. They have taught me so much, and the common trait I see among them is their personal discipline and laser sharp focus. People ask me on a regular basis, "What is [insert name here] doing? I need to know her secret!"

Here's the secret. There isn't one. If there was a magic pill that could make you skinny (and keep you skinny!) then Oprah wouldn't have a weight battle.  If there was a magic business book to guarantee your success then everyone would buy it. If they made shoes that could do the jogging for you then everyone would buy them (could somebody please invent some?!?!?).

Unfortunately, for us, these things don't exist. What we can do, however, is learn as much as we can from others who are where we want to be. My goal this year is to study and learn from as many successful entrepreneurs as I can. No matter what your goals may be this year I challenge you to do the same thing. Hitch your wagon to a star and see how far you can go. I know it's going to be a great ride.