do differently to be more successful

Halvorson gives an overview of the things we can all do differently to be more successful, including: 1. Be specific. "'Lose 5 pounds' is a better goal than 'lose some weight,' because it gives you a clear idea of what success looks like," she writes. "Knowing exactly what you want to achieve keeps you motivated until you get there." 2. Be a (realistic) optimist. Imagine the best possible outcome, but don't forget that success comes from hard work and planning. For instance, if you're going on a job interview, using positive imaging is just one of many tools you could use to get the job -- but it's not substitute for researching the employer and the job, and practicing interview questions. In any case, it'll be easier to project self-confidence if you've done your homework. 3. Be active. Think about your goals in positive terms (e.g. asking for a raise, applying to X jobs a day), not negative ones (e.g. stop procrastinating, waking up late, etc.) It's easier to add a new habit than it is to break an old one, and arranging your goals around what you won't do sets you up for failure.