” A formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.” -Brian Tracey

As I travel throughout the United States and Canada, presenting my business and personal growth classes, I am always asked the same questions, how can I reach higher levels of excellence in the beauty profession? Why do some hairdressers and salons always seem to succeed, while others just get by? How do I raise my standard of living? How can I overcome burnout? How do I build an upscale clientele? How can I stand above the crowd and gain that competitive edge? How do I regain my passion to succeed? How can I make my salon more profitable? The questions go on and on.

There are certain qualities that set successful people develop that sets them apart from the rest.

First of all success and excellence begins within, you control your own destiny, your first step is to take personal responsibility for your own success or failure. Sadly far too many people are always making excuses to fail, always blaming others. Successful people knows what it takes to succeed, it starts with true grit, a fierce determination to maximize their full learning and earning potential. Far too many people want to reach the top with no plan of action or goals.

Although there are many other steps you must take to succeed, the following tips will help you get started in helping you reach your full learning and earning potential, I urge you to follow these tips with an open mind. For more information and help, click here.

Goals –— A goal casually taken will probably be abandoned at the first obstacle. Clearly define what you really want out of salon ownership or personal growth and development. Set goals for yourself and let your goals serve as a road map to follow.

Education — the more you learn, the more you earn. Building a business or career is not a sprint but a journey. The road to self-improvement is never closed. There is no speed limit to learning. In addition to improving your artistic skills, work hard to develop other important skills such as your people skills, self-promotion, salesmanship, customer service, business minded, and much more. Learn to work smarter, not harder.

Self-Discipline — it takes a lot of self-discipline to stay focused towards securing a better life for yourself and your family as you grow, opportunities will come your way that you never expected. Get out of the box of mediocrity and go for it.

Perseverance — you will endure many peaks and valleys on your climb to the top, learn from your mistakes and move on, no matter what it takes. Never ever give up on your dreams for a better and happier life. Anything is possible if you believe.

Passion — to succeed in your profession and life in general will require passion and continuing self-improvement. Challenge yourself every day to maximize your full learning and earning potential. If you don’t have a passion for self improvement in the career you have chosen, you may want to try another profession.

Hard Work — it takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice to achieve success and happiness. In the beauty profession. you don’t get three wishes. Remember, building a career or business is a journey not a sprint.

Reminds me of a famous concert pianist who was signing his autograph by an excited fan, while he was signing his autograph his admirer fan said to him, I would give my life to play the piano like you, he replied, I did!

How many of you give a 110% towards self-improvement?

For more information on self-improvement, check out these educational resources. Click here