By Nido Qubein

Wherever my career takes me — from my home city of High Point, North Carolina, to the mini-state of Luxembourg; from the island city-state of Singapore to the island continent of Australia — I encounter people pursuing a common quest: success.

Many come to me in search of a secret formula. They’ve labored for years, butted their heads against walls, suffered failure and rejection, and still they wonder: “Is it possible for me to achieve success, given my level of talent and education?” And I have a ready response: You can if you want to.

Success is not a matter of luck, an accident of birth, or a reward for virtue. It is a matter of decision, commitment, planning, preparation, execution, and recommitment.

Success doesn’t come to you; you go to it. The trail is well traveled and well marked. If you want to walk it, you can.