The American Dream encourages people to take a chance and build their path to success. In theory, we all have the right to launch a profitable business or land a management position in a Fortune 500 companies. In practice, however, most of us assume that professional success is an advantage that is only reserved for wealthy individuals.
With the business world changing dramatically over the last 100 years, it’s become more challenging for individuals to succeed without financial backing. Nevertheless, the assumption that money equals success remains a mental obstacle that many of us fail to overcome.
1. Because they already want to look like the boss
You have to dress the part if you’re going to be perceived as a leader. While there is no denying that your attitude and behavior will affect your professional reputation, the clothes you wear and the car your drive play a far less significant role. The idea of power suiting for the office is omnipresent in the business world. However, not only dressing like a boss is expensive, but it is also unnecessary. Someone like Steve Jobs made an entire career of wearing a pair of jeans and a black jumper, and nobody would have considered disrespecting him.
Similarly, you don’t need to drive an expensive car to make it to the top. Alice Walton, the heiress to the Walmart business, drives a 2006 Ford F, a fairly frugal vehicle for someone with a nearly $50 billion fortune. In other words, you don’t need to break the bank to make it to the top. Choosing a reasonable vehicle that is guaranteed to keep your insurance companies premiums low alongside with a sensible outfit is all you need. Shine through your experience, not your belongings.
2. Because they don’t understand how to build a network
It’s not what you can do, it’s who you know. You’ve probably heard it in the past. The statement remains true. Knowing the right people in the business world can make your progression to the top a lot smoother. However, you don’t need to buy people’s support. Instead, you need to focus on building positive and helpful working relationships with your co-workers, partners, and clients. Be able to surround yourself with a network of individuals who can promote your skills and your personality has nothing to do with money, but everything to do with how you treat people.
3. Because they assume the most expensive studies are the best way forward
Last, but not least, aspiring entrepreneurs believe that a Harvard degree is going to open them professional doors. In reality, while academic education can make a difference, your studies are not a guarantee of success. Rachael Ray, a businesswoman with a net worth of $60 million, dropped out of university. Steve Jobs never finished his degree. You can find your way to the top without expensive studies.
Is money the key to going far in your career? Not always. While it can help you to establish your career, you’ll find that self-made entrepreneurs are more likely to have learned valuable life lessons that keep them on track!
