2 Things Will Define You

There are two things that will define us in this life.

Two things that will affect the way the world sees us - potential employers, friends, family - everyone. Two things that will determine how far we go in our career, and in our life.

• Your patience when you have nothing.
• Your attitude when you have everything.

1. Your patience when you have nothing and are struggling

When we are tested, struggling, searching for answers, in pain, lost, under extreme pressure, without support and abandoned - how patient are we?

The key to that patience is faith - the relentless belief that things will get better, inventiveness - the ability to calmly create solutions, and confidence in ourselves - trusting that we will, indeed, find a way out.

Faith, inventiveness and confidence are the attributes that will prevent you from "losing it". Yes, we may break down here and there, engage in self-pity and blame the world - but overall, if our patience level is high, then we can literally outlast troubled times.

When others see this high level of patience in us, they too believe in us. They also begin to have faith. Often, they will lend their support. People will see us - and we will see ourselves - as resilient, strong and determined. 

2. Your attitude when you have it all

I met recently with an old friend I had not seen in 15 years. But I was shocked that the conversation consisted mainly of him boasting. He talked about the many trips he has taken around the world (knowing I've been almost nowhere), his multi-million dollar home, his romantic conquests and generally, how great he is.

Being boastful, egotistical and arrogant will ensure that our likeability factor will go way down. In business and in life, not being liked is a liability.

As we enjoy successes in life, we have a responsibility to be more thankful, more humble and more giving.

The shaping of our legacy

Popularity, wealth and power - have less impact compared to our behavior when we have nothing, and our attitude when we have everything.

Our view of ourselves is the ultimate determining factor in how the world sees us, how effective and meaningful our lives will be, and ultimately, how we'll be remembered.

When life puts you to the test - find strength in patience, faith, hope and belief in yourself. Do away with blame, self-pity and anger as much as you can.

Then, when you're riding high - show humility, try to help others, and be thankful.

These are the things that define us.