6 Eye-Opening Reasons Why the Promise of Success Is Difficult to Resist

“Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be.” — George Sheehan

Seems like there are lots of theories about what it takes to become successful

Every day, we’re bombarded with tried-and-true methods, proven-to-work programs, and stellar success courses that have worked — for someone else. These incredible examples are so convincing, we sometimes forget there are rarely, if ever, any guarantees that all those who follow in the same footsteps will prevail.

Yet, we’re led to believe that by repeating the same steps, process, and methods, we too, can become just like the hallowed few at the top of the mountain. Not only will we join the ranks, but we’ll also be welcomed with open arms and enthusiastic acceptance.

But there’s usually a hidden reality

Underlying the promises and hype of achieving greatness is an unspoken truth of why we’re not all millionaires, movie stars, or famous authors. And it lies at the very core of human nature.

We all want the accolades and recognition others have

But we’re reluctant to do whatever it takes to attain those rewards. More than hesitant, many folks believe it’s unnecessary — even irrelevant — to take on the unpleasant chores, frustrating research, and sheer amount of hard work to eventually make their dreams a reality.

Here’s an example:

Let’s say you want to write a NY Times Bestseller and be the next rich-and-famous, in-demand author. So how do you make it big in the literary world? You might start by signing up for several writing courses and attending seminars to learn the tricks of the trade. And you hold high hopes that your streamlined approach of learning from those who’ve already done it will land you a prized slot on the coveted list of authors with best-selling books.

What happens?

You discover how competitive the market is in the real world. You’re astonished that readers don’t immediately recognize your work as brilliant, innovative, and transformative. And you come to realize writing is a business and — if you’re going to be successful and make the big time — the coveted trophy requires hard work, commitment, and persistence.

Looking back on all those courses you bought and seminars you attended, you wonder why very few, if any, mentioned the obstacles and pitfalls common to the profession. And you’re left frustrated and disappointed, your alleged heroes beginning to tarnish a bit on the edges.

Here’s one way to figure out what’s really going on

Those we admire for the achievements and success they’ve accomplished surely faced challenges, doubts, and even failures. But somehow, they made the result — financial freedom and recognition for their efforts — happen for themselves. Because they chose their own path.

“I owe my success to having listened respectfully to the very best advice, and then going away and doing the exact opposite.” — G. K. Chesterton

So how much faith should we put in the advice of others?

Good question. Because coming to an acceptable answer is an individual decision, and depends not only on what you personally need — increased technical skill, coaching in marketing and sales, or motivation — but also on your expectations for success.

Investing in a course to learn how to improve your writing or how to solicit readers for sales and reviews makes sense. Paying a Johnny-come-lately guru for a shortcut to getting your book on the New York Times best-seller list does not.

The real test of authentic, realistic, and value-based coaching?

Honest and ethical mentors will reveal the whole, gruesome journey — no matter how much it hurts their bottom line.

They’re willing to tell the truth to inexperienced ears, because they understand only those who are willing to make the sacrifices and expend the time and energy will get the message — and have the best possible chance to reach their individual goals.

Here are a few guidelines and red flags to watch for when things seem too easy — or good — to be true:

1. The program, course, webinar, or training is offered for free — at least initially.

After the hook has been set and you’re past the point of no return, you’re likely to find yourself reeled in by the promise of achieving stellar success — the kind that’s available only after purchasing the next level of training.

2. Other’s success depends on you, and you don’t want to let them down.

This slippery-slope strategy is often promoted by bigger-than-life experts suggesting you’re part of a special or exclusive community and, without you, the entire pyramid will tumble to the ground. You’re led to believe you have an obligation to participate and support the cause, or everyone loses.

Feeling the heat, you’re compelled to commit to the process and get in line behind the leader, because they know the route — and shortcuts — to victory. Or do they?

While you may sense the rush to jump in with both feet and your wallet, this type of mind game is a common ruse — one you may be chastised for if you decide not to play. But if you do choose to pursue a place in the loosely-constructed tower, you might want to leave a trail of breadcrumbs and set a few flares — just in case.

3. You find out your success is dependent on trolling for others to support the greater good.

Every new cog you add to the wheel will make it spin faster, bringing you closer to your prized life. You’re told the patronage of others will make you successful and, in turn, you’ll be teaching them how they can achieve the same result.

Motivated by your promise of sharing the elusive knowledge — which can only happen when they also buy the system and join the tribe — they happily spend a week’s salary for start-up kits, samples, or processing fees to take the first step toward achieving their dreams of financial independence.

4. Stories of success, and promises you can achieve the same results, seem impossible to resist.

Keep in mind the truth will eventually show itself, and sometimes it’s very disappointing. Deceivers talk about all the great things they’ve done — things you can also do … someday.

Experienced and seasoned persuaders often disguise the pitfalls and setbacks that are an integral part of progress and eventual success, because they understand you don’t want to know anything about that.

5. We’re inherently drawn to success like a moth to a flame.

It’s our nature to want more, to be more, and to aspire to financial independence. That distant goal is a bright, glowing ember that’s hard to resist, and we feel pulled to become one with its heat. And so you continue to reach for the prize, stretching your fingers and budget in a desperate attempt to grasp the greatness tempting you from afar.

Fair warning: It’s best to remember that for the moth, it’s a one-way trip — and not a very pleasant one.

6. Illusions are more compelling than truth.

We live for the fantasy of what could be, rather than the reality of how things are — and what is actually necessary to change them. And after too many conversations with ourselves in the mirror, we realize the last thing we want to be is ordinary — like everyone else.

So we search for the newest-and-best mentor-charlatan offering the dream — the hallucination — believing we’ll be the exception to the majority’s plight of living an average life spent in anonymity.

What’s the answer?

It’s very possible to become the best you can be — with or without the outside expertise of others. However, you’ll increase the likelihood of accomplishing your dream if you’re honest with yourself right upfront— acknowledging the inevitable difficulties and challenges you’ll face along the way.

The secret is to be open to your own potential by continuing to learn, experiment, and try new inroads that feel right for you. Because when you find your efforts and progress start coming naturally, you’ll be more inclined to dig in and finish the marathon — on your own terms.

Pay attention to your personal filter and instincts

Take relevant advice to heart, and leave the questionable recommendations by the roadside — especially if they involve buying admission to alleged inner-circle wisdom.

Pursue success your way, using your personal skills, knowledge, and talents to lead you in an authentic direction. Because — in the end — it’s more important to look back at a trail of your own design and structure, knowing you faced adversity, challenge, and fear to ultimately arrive at your desired destination.

“If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” — Jim Rohn