Some people think life is hard to figure out. I disagree. There are not-so-secret secrets to a successful life— selflessness, seeing others are who they can become, humility, laughter, taking responsibility, and telling others you love them.

Be Selfless

"Your life is not only about you; it is also about everyone else whose lives you touch." This is an expression I like. Everyone's success is a team effort. Even if you think you did it yourself, there were lots of people supporting and backing you. Maybe it was your partner giving you words of encouragement, your employees helping you with critical tasks, or your friends listening to and giving you feedback. We are social creatures; the idea of someone succeeding alone is highly improbable. When you succeed, share the credit with all the people who helped you. When you do that, these people will feel empowered to succeed as well; and they will want to keep empowering you.

Similarly, when someone else has a chance to succeed, empower them. Listen to them and comment on their ideas. Give suggestions to help them refine their plans. Offer to help and increase their likelihood for success. When someone does succeed, shower them with praise and appreciation. Share in their celebration and glory. Again, every accomplishment is a team accomplishment.

Seeing Others as Who They Can Become

When I was a 19-year-old undergraduate student at Florida State University, I met Richard (Dick) Dunham, who would become my first academic mentor. Dick saw in me what I did not yet see in myself; someone with potential as a researcher and scholar. He continued to nurture that vision until I began to wake up and become the person he knew I could become. That took more than two years, and Dick easily could........

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