Steps To Success Are Not Transferrable

By Brian Maynor

 

You can’t read a blog or magazine without seeing at least one list of ‘top tips’ from someone on their success or closet.

They may be popular and fun to read, but new research shows they can be potentially harmful if taken out of context.

Success is personal, and placing blind faith in the steps others took is no guarantee you will have the same results.  Here are a few of the reasons why:

1.    Anecdotes are not evidence.  While they may be fun to read and offer inspiration, anecdotes cannot be verified because they are based on interpretation, not quantifiable science. That’s what makes them applicable in various situations.  The drawback is that they do not offer the same proven results for everyone.

2.    Context matters.  Everyone’s steps toward success are unique to their set of circumstances, and the context of their advice should be taken with that in mind.  What often works or is available for one professional may not work or be available to another, even if their positions are the same.  For example skipping meetings or forgoing traditional professional suits may be great in southern California, but that probably doesn’t translate the same in South Carolina.

3.    A big part of success is luck.  Whether successful people like to mention it or not, hard work, dedication, training and experience only go so far.  While each of those factors is extremely important and help ensure you are prepared and ready should opportunity come your way, you cannot manufacture opportunity.  Whether it’s timing or being in the right place at the right time you cannot rise to great heights in anything without a little luck.

4.    It’s just advice.  Someone else’s tips, checklist or habits are only beneficial if they apply to and help your situation.  After all, advice is meant to share.  Comparing our situation to others and hearing what works for them is one way to gather information and test theories and ideas.  The harm comes when too much faith is placed on advice.

Even though it is subjective, contextual and full of anecdotes, advice and tips from others on their success have their benefits.  They offer guidance and insight that should be interpreted; incorporated or discarded as our situation and beliefs dictate.  So in other words, take it for what it’s worth and keep moving.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.