So you’ve been grinding day in and day out for years. You’ve been putting in the hardest work you’ve ever done in your life. You’ve spent countless sleepless nights working on your dreams, but the money is only coming in trickles.
It’s easy to look up and ask, “Is it all worth it?”
Here’s the good news: Money is only ONE sign that you’re approaching success—and it’s usually among the last rewards to come your way. There are other, clearer signs that indicate you’re doing well—be sure you don’t ignore them!
Here are the 3 signs all your hard work is finally paying off.
Sign #1: There are New Opportunities Coming Your Way
You’re seeing more opportunities for growth and expansion. You’re getting more gigs. People are coming back to you with more and more business – and sometimes, you’re finding yourself with a full plate. That’s a great problem to have!
Streams of new opportunities is a natural sign of growth. You get better at what you do, you identify new markets, you get more clients and customers to work with. Sure, that means a lot more work on your plate, but should that surprise you? Millionaires don’t stop working after they become millionaires – they keep working, and they enjoy their work more, at that!
Sign #2: There are New People Who Want to Work With You
The second sign your hard work is paying off is when more and more people approach you for partnerships and joint projects. That means one thing: Word is getting around. You’ve built a reputation, and it’s preceding you – now people want to capitalize on the profitable business by partnering with you.
Think of it this way: People are getting busier and busier these days. They can only afford to spend their time with the people who matter most in their lives. Consider it an honor and a privilege that people are choosing to spend their valuable time with you!
And lastly:
Sign #3: You’ll Be Getting More Critics
That’s right—the more critics and bashers you have, the more successful you are. This shouldn’t surprise you. After all, average people can’t stand success. It’s a mixture of envy and insecurity, and their hate is more about them than it is about you.
That said, criticism will always sting. You’ll feel the urge to get angry and shoot back. Don’t do that – it’s only going to derail all your hard work!
Instead, stay cool, and promise yourself NEVER to engage in any arguments in life – whether online or off. Make it a personal rule. Put it in your “honor code.” Apologize whenever you need to, but be quick about it. Get back to the grind as soon as you can, because your customers, fans, and followers need you to be at your best!
The Money Will Follow
One last piece of advice: No matter how successful you get, stay humble. Always remember how you started out. Always remember what you went through. This humility will ensure you keep inviting good people and good opportunities your way, and keeps you from making those crazy decisions that ruin people for life.
And don’t worry about the money. It’s only a matter of time!
Previously published on Kevin J. Donaldson
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Photo: Getty Images
