Each of us has the potential to achieve far more than we have yet imagined. We know that human beings use only a tiny percentage of our brain's potential. We waste time, we get distracted, we 'spin our wheels', and we get frustrated. Yes, we do accomplish things, but only a small portion of what we are capable of achieving.

    At the same time, other people are reaching huge goals and achieving vastly more than us. I find it humbling that Bill Gates, Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey, and Tiger Woods, are so young! Whatever you think of him or his politics, isn't it astonishing that Bill Clinton, is a retired president? He's still a 'kid'!

    What are the secrets to that level of achievement?

    After studying thousands of highly effective people over the past 20 years, I believe it comes down to only four critical essentials. Here they are:

    1. Self Discipline. Self discipline has a terrible reputation because most people think of it as pain and deprivation, but nothing could be further from the truth!

    Self discipline is the key to ultimate freedom! It means taking charge of your life, being an adult and deciding how you want to live your life. It means you are not dependent on circumstances or convenience or other people's opinions. It is choosing your own course, taking responsibility and going in the direction YOU have chosen. It means doing what makes sense in the long run, rather than what is popular or comfortable or easy. Self discipline is the first essential for massive, extraordinary levels of personal success.

    2. Effective Resource Allocation. High achievers don't waste time or squander relationships, or 'wish their lives away'. They use their talents and abilities wisely. They focus their efforts on their most important next steps.

    We have limited resources. There are only 24 hours in a day, and we have limited stamina and strength. High achievers concentrate their best efforts on their most important projects. They are very careful about time, knowing that when today is over, it's gone forever. They make careful choices about money, knowing that once spent, it's gone forever, but invested wisely, it can create literally millions of dollars over time. High achievers use resources wisely.

    3. Environmental Perfection. We respond to our surroundings and high achievers create environments that support them perfectly, all day long, every single day. They care about their offices, and they take care of their bodies. They dress well and keep their tools sharp and well- maintained.

    There is a reason extraordinarily successful people have elegant offices, and live orderly, structured, simple lives. These are the habits that MADE THEM SUCCESSFUL!

    4. Hard Work. Extremely successful people work harder than the rest of us. Yes, sometimes they simply work more hours and stay more focused, but sometimes it's the subtle things. They pay attention and actually listen to the people they meet. They network effectively. They read and use what they learn to achieve better outcomes. They get more done!

    Self-made millionaires routinely work 50, 60 or even more hours per week. Often they are doing work they love so it doesn't feel like 'work' in the traditional sense, but they show up early, they stay late, and they work all day long. They take care of the 'little things' and it shows up in the quality of their results, and in their bank accounts at the end of the year.