Andrew Carnegie's eye opening quotes on becoming successful

“The men who have succeeded are men who have chosen one line and stuck to it.” – Andrew Carnegie

How often have you been told: don’t put all your eggs in one basket? Most of us have been taught this philosophy since childhood. As a result, we pursue investments, career and romantic relationships with the belief that we should always have a backup plan. Unknowingly, this results in valuable time focused on

the fear of failure. 

However, if you look closely, many extraordinary people have chosen one path and stuck to it. For example, Warren Buffet is an investor. Bill Gates is a software expert. Michael Dell builds computers and Howard Schultz makes coffee. Each of these men encountered difficult times on their path. Yet, their focus on their craft was immovable.  

Andrew Carnegie becomes more explicit with his philosophy.  He said, “concentrate your energies, your thoughts and your capital. The wise man puts all his eggs in one basket and watches that basket.” Why would such a successful man promote a philosophy that is contrary to public opinion? Perhaps we should look at why someone would abandon Carnegie’s belief. 

While there are several reasons one may expend their efforts in multiple directions, let’s focus on one. Many times people abandon a path because it is fraught with difficulty. The ensuing philosophy becomes: it just wasn’t meant to be.

Except, if you look at the examples of the titans of today and yesterday, you will see they became better because of the challenges. The problems that often discourage people are usually the opportunities to build character and develop the skills that are missing and needed to fulfill the vision.

Napoleon Hill speaks incessantly about the need to know the difference between failure and temporary defeat. 

Next time you commit to a vision, instead of retreating when things get tough, uncover the skills and competencies you will need to complete your mission. It may seem like circumstances are against you. At the same time, if you pursue your dream in the face of difficulty, you will find you become a bigger and better person. Moreover, when you look back, you will be amazed at what was once difficult is now easy.

In your investments, career and romantic relationships, choose one line, stick to it and become the best.