Have you ever been curious why some people are more successful than other seemingly smarter people? If you’re human, the answer is “Yes.”

Actually, it could be a result of many things. Some of the reasons may be obvious (married the boss’s daughter), but it could be something not so obvious like the person is more committed to being successful.

How many stories or biographies about successful people have you read where the narrative involved smooth sailing or an easy path toward success? Very few I would imagine.

Success requires discipline, hard work, perseverance, tenacity, will, courage and faith. With that in mind, here are some guidelines for persevering with your goals — no matter what life throws at you.

There is no question about it: commitment is a key to success whether it's in a business, personal and professional growth, or sports.

What made Larry Bird one of the best players in basketball? He was considered slow, and many thought he could not jump. Sometimes it almost looked like he was playing in slow motion. But Larry Bird succeeded as a player because he was totally dedicated to success. He practiced more, played harder, and had more mental toughness than most of his competitors. He got more out of his talents than almost anyone did.

The bottom line is the difference in physical skills between athletes doesn't tell you much. There are a lot of very good athletes, but it's the quality of their commitment that separates the good players from the great ones.

People who are committed to success are willing to do whatever it takes, as long as it doesn't harm anyone else. Everything they do reflects their commitment.

Ask yourself the following questions and think about your answers. "How strong is your commitment—to your career, your personal growth? How much of your time and energy do you give these things? Do the results you get reflect your level of commitment?"

The answers might be very enlightening. If they aren’t what you would like them to be, you are the only one to change them…and the results.

Think about it…