Everyone defines success differently. While I am no longer in the working world I do think a lot about success in my personal life. This week I did a presentation for our local AAUW chapter and I was happy to be able to share with these accomplished ladies something that I am passionate about.

As I looked out over the women in attendance I was reminded, once again, how many of them have had truly amazing careers in their lifetime. But the thing that really struck me was that the many accomplishments that these women have had in their own careers and personal lives has had an impact on countless others. That to me is success.

Chris used to have a poster on his wall in his various offices over the years. It was a list of suggestions for successful living. He always said that number one was the most important one on the list. I agree with that as well.

This poster was an important fixture in his office. Today it seems only fair to share those words of H. Jackson Brown, Jr., author of Life’s Little Instruction Book, as well as many other great offerings.

I would love to hear what you think is a secret to success—feel free to add to the list.

1. Marry the right person.  This one decision will determine 90% of your happiness and misery.
2. Work at something you enjoy and that’s worthy of your time and talent.
3. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
4. Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
5. Be forgiving of yourself and others.
6. Be generous.
7. Have a grateful heart.
8. Persistence, persistence, persistence.
9. Discipline yourself to save money even on the most modest salary.
10. Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
11. Commit yourself to constant improvement.
12. Commit yourself to quality.
13. Understand that happiness is not based on possessions, power or prestige, but on relationships with people you love and respect.
14. Be loyal.
15. Be honest.
16. Be a self-starter.
17. Be decisive even if it means you’ll sometimes be wrong.
18. Stop blaming others.  Take responsibility for every area of your life.
19. Be bold and courageous.  When you look back on your life, your’ll regret the things you didn’t do more than the ones you did.
20. Take good care of those you love.
21. Don’t do anything that wouldn’t make your Mom proud.