The Success Principles

Written by Leigh Martinuzzi

Jack Canfield is most popular for his book Chicken Soup for The Soul that presents an array of comforting stories of how amazing people have moved through adversity, overcome challenges and risen up to go on and live their dreams. In The Success Principles Jack shares 64 timeless philosophies that many people both past and present use to live their own definition of success.

I read this book years ago after a recommendation by a mentor of mine. After reading it the first time it was clear that my mentor had read it several times as he not only lives by the principles but he no teaches them as well. Many in which I have picked up from him.

It was time I take another listen and recap on some of the key principles. It’s also a chance to rewrite this review.

Success. What is your definition of success? I’ve talked on this topic many times in the past. I feel that success is something only the individual can determine. Comparing ourselves to others, measuring success based on societies definition or losing ourselves in materialistic pursuits isn’t the answer. Success is what you want it to be.

I believe success is happiness. I believe that when I am having a positive impact on others lives I am successful. I believe that when I have the freedom to have beautiful experiences in life I am successful. I believe that being able to do what I like when I like is a success. I believe having good health is a success. I believe living in a way that reduces my suffering is a success. What do you believe success is?

In the audiobook Canfield shares many, but not all, of the 64 principles in a way that actually helps the reader better assess their own interpretation of success. Because the philosophies aren’t relevant to just one pursuit in life like becoming a millionaire, there is no categorisation. The same principles, when understood and implemented, can be applied to anyone’s wildest or most humble dreams.

The book is structured in a way that navigates us through understanding success in building our success. Sections of the book touch on The Fundamentals of Success, Transforming Your Success, Creating Succesful Teams, Successful Relationships, and Success and Money.

Within each of these categories are principles on how to overcome challenges, increase your drive, better your confidence and discover your true ambitions. There are methods on how to transform your limiting beliefs, influence your beliefs, face change and your fears, and how to deal with change. There are a good repertoire of tools and thoughts to help you live your dreams and a life on purpose.

In the audiobook, that Jack calmly narrates himself, you will not find yourself bogged down for too long on any one principles. I think a good way to digest these philosophies would be to listen to one or two a day and then meditate on them. In this way, you can really digest the content and absorb the valuable lessons – “How can I use this to enhance my success?”

This book gives reference to numerous examples to help make the principles more easily understood and transferable to anyone’s daily life. There is a little bit of fluff and hocus-pocus but not too much. And it depends on your perspectives and beliefs.

One theme that turns many people away is principles on the Law of Attraction – a rule that states what we think about and focuses on we can bring into fruition and into our lives. On the surface level I understand the resistance to such a universal law, however, there is a great deal of science and other work that highlights the power of this theory.

Visualisation for example, and having a higher awareness so we can direct our thoughts seem to help in the transformation of one’s overall well-being. I say take what you find valuable and leave the rest behind but don’t be closed to new ideas.

In summary and in the words of Jack Canfield, “If you want to be successful, you have to take 100% responsibility for everything that you experience in your life.” There is plenty of wisdom in this book and I am sure there will be many golden nuggets that you may just benefit from.

Read it, enjoy it, live it and watch the growth continue as you proceed towards the level of success in life you so desire.

If this book sounds of interest you can purchase The Success Principles here.

Please leave your thoughts, comments & questions below.

Peace, passion and purpose…

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Further Reading and Resources 

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American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

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Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.