The Pyramid of Success

“Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable.”  ~ Coach John Wooden**

Coach John Wooden spent decades identifying the characteristics and traits that help define a successful person. He narrowed the list down to 25 common behaviors. By 1948, he had created his iconic triangle diagram called the “Pyramid of Success”.

The life principles summarized in the Pyramid of Success have no explicit reference to sports. It is simply a roadmap to being a better person.

• Every success begins with a good foundation
  • Industriousness – There is no substitute for work. Worthwhile results come from hard work and careful planning.
  • Friendship – Comes from mutual esteem, respect and devotion. Like marriage it must not be take for granted, but requires a joint effort.
  • Loyalty – To yourself and to all those depending upon you. Keep your self-respect.
  • Cooperation – With all levels of your coworkers. Listen if you want to be heard. Be interested in find the best way, not in having your own way.
  • Enthusiasm – Brushes off upon those with whom you come in contact. You must truly enjoy what you are doing.
• Push against the “shiny object syndrome” of today’s world and focus on doing simple things
  • Self-Control – Practice self-discipline and keep emotions under control. Good judgement and common sense are essential.
  • Alertness – Be observing constantly. Stay open-minded. Be eager to learn and improve.
  • Initiative – Cultivate the ability to make decisions and think alone. Do not be afraid of failure, but learn from it.
  • Intentness – Set a realistic goal. Concentrate on its achievement by resisting all temptations and being determined and persistent.
• Just try to be the best you can be; never cease trying
  • Condition – Mental-Moral-Physical. Rest, exercise and diet must be considered. Moderation must be practiced. Dissipation must be eliminated.
  • Skill – A knowledge of and the ability to properly and quickly execute the fundamentals. Be prepared and cover every little detail.
  • Team Spirit – A genuine consideration for others. An eagerness to sacrifice personal interests of glory for the welfare of all.
  • Poise – Just being yourself. Being at ease in any situation. Never fighting yourself.
  • Confidence – Respect without fear. May come from being prepared and keeping all things in proper perspective.
• Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do
  • Competitive Greatness – Be at your best when your best is needed. Enjoyment of a difficult challenge.
• It is amazing how much can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit
  • Ambition – for noble goals
  • Adaptability – in any situation
  • Resourcefulness – proper judgment
  • Fight – determined effort
  • Faith – through prayer
  • Patience – good things take time
  • Integrity – purity of intention
  • Reliability – creates respect
  • Honesty – in thought and action
  • Sincerity – keeps friends

**Source:  www.thewoodeneffect.com