The Success Connection

On the QT Newsletter, The Success Connection
April 15, 2008

Did you know? What really leads to success is not smarts, looks, or luck. At least that is what Richard St. John concludes after extensively researching the subject. In fact, he completed over 500 interviews gathering millions of “words of wisdom” from successful people. St. John sorted and synthesized his findings into 8 traits to great. His work is not only fascinating but also visually compelling. St. John has a story to tell and tells it well in his book, Stupid, Ugly, Unlucky, and Rich. In this week’s activity, find out what qualities your students believe are necessary for success in this compare and contrast exercise.

Try this

Ask your students to write down 8 to 10 traits that they believe make a person successful.
Then view this three-minute video clip … Secrets of Success in 8 Words.
After watching the video, click on this chart and have students compare their success traits to those identified and defined by St. John.
Discuss how their traits are alike and different.

Want More?
Along with the success traits outlined in this lesson, you may want to focus on some of the “Know How Skills” employers seek. Try this stand up activity outlined here. In addition, there are a number of new interactive student lessons, with activity guides, to teach students about entrepreneurship, the power of optimism, leadership and … why not assign one for extra credit?

Quik Quote: And will you succeed? YES! You will indeed! (98 and 1/4 percent guaranteed.) Dr. Seuss