I’ve gleaned lessons from many sources. Some from other people. Some from situations. Many from trial and error. Here are 10 steps I believe can help you to be successful.

• Read 10 pages a day that will help you improve yourself in some way. If you read executive-type book summaries, you could read nearly one book per day.

• Be at peace, with at least yourself. Don’t become so comfortable that you quit taking calculated risks. However, if you are positive about yourself, you will have more energy.

• Eat well. Sleep well. Exercise at least five times per week for 45 minutes. Take personal relaxation time daily; 30 minutes or more.

• Learn to delegate when you can. If you can effectively get others to help you, you can multiply your efforts.

• Persist. No matter what you face, decide to continue. Certainly review your plans to be certain they still make sense. Revise your plans when solid evidence shows it necessary. Setbacks are painful and frustrating; however, don’t allow them to be fatal.

• Have a sense of humor. Laugh with others, not at others. Enjoy a proper joke. Share especially funny events with your family, friends, and associates.

• Have role models. Find people who you admire and emulate their process and practices. If you ask for help, follow the advice given before asking for more. Prove your willingness and sincerity through actions taken, not words spoken.

• Learn the difference between making a living and making money. When we make a living, we have enough money to cover our basic needs and hopefully a little more. When we make money, we generate enough income to save and invest. It is often how much we spend, more than how much we make that determines if we make money or just a living.

• Learn to delay gratification. Work to save money for major purchases before making them. Ideally, pay cash as you go. The real cost of what we buy on credit is the sales, price plus the interest, plus the lost investment opportunities. If you buy anything for status, seriously consider getting help with your understanding of finances.

• Share your resources with others. Share your time, talents, energy, and money with others. Sharing shows that we have confidence there is enough to go around. There is enough to go beyond our needs, to the needs of others.

Tim O’Brien writes continuing-education courses and presents seminars on stress management.