In this article, we will explore the characteristics of conquerors and non-achievers and discuss the importance of choosing the right role model for success. By understanding the qualities that set conquerors apart and adopting their mindset, college students can pave their way to extraordinary achievements:

Focused and Resilient

Conquerors are individuals who maintain an unwavering focus on their goals, even in the face of setbacks and failures. They possess the ability to collect themselves, learn from past experiences, and redirect their focus with laser-like intensity towards what is still possible. They create their own opportunities and do not dwell on the past.

Thomas Edison, one of the greatest inventors in history, provides an inspiring anecdote of how focus and resilience proved to be his keys to success.

In the late 19th century, Edison embarked on a mission to create a practical and commercially viable electric light bulb. His vision was to revolutionize the world by replacing the age-old gas lighting systems with electricity. However, his journey was filled with countless failures and setbacks.

Edison faced numerous challenges during his relentless pursuit. Each failed attempt to create a functioning light bulb could have easily discouraged him, but he refused to give up. Instead, he saw every setback as an opportunity to learn and improve. Edison famously remarked, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

His laboratory became a testament to his unwavering focus and resilience. Edison and his team tirelessly experimented, making countless iterations, testing different materials, and exploring various techniques. The process was arduous and time-consuming, but Edison remained undeterred.

After years of relentless effort, on October 21, 1879, Edison finally achieved a breakthrough. He successfully produced a practical and long-lasting incandescent light bulb. The world would never be the same again.

Edison’s triumph was not merely a result of his brilliance as an inventor but also his ability to persevere in the face of repeated failures. He turned setbacks into stepping stones, using each unsuccessful attempt as a valuable lesson to refine his approach.

His remarkable journey teaches us that true conquerors are not discouraged by obstacles but rather view them as opportunities for growth. Edison’s focus and resilience enabled him to overcome immense challenges and make an indelible mark on human history.

Today, Edison’s contributions to the world go far beyond the light bulb. His inventions and innovations transformed numerous industries, including telegraphy, sound recording, and motion pictures. His unwavering commitment to his goals and his refusal to succumb to setbacks continue to inspire generations of aspiring conquerors.

The story of Thomas Edison reminds us that success often requires determination, perseverance, and an unwavering focus on the desired outcome. Through his example, he encourages us to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and stay resolute in the pursuit of our dreams.

Forward-Thinking and Goal-Oriented

Unlike non-achievers who tend to dwell on “what might have been,” conquerors instinctively focus on “what will still be.” They maintain a positive outlook, commit to daily goals, and actively work towards achieving them. Conquerors demonstrate initiative, actively participate in discussions, and offer constructive suggestions.

Serena Williams, a living legend in the world of tennis, personifies unwavering focus, relentless determination, and a positive outlook which served as her keys to success. Throughout her extraordinary career, Serena Williams has faced numerous challenges and setbacks. However, Serena refuses to be weighed down by past failures or missed opportunities.

One memorable anecdote that showcases Serena’s conqueror mindset took place during the 2017 Australian Open. After a 14-month hiatus from competitive tennis due to the birth of her daughter and a subsequent health scare, Serena faced tremendous doubts and uncertainties about her ability to reclaim her dominance on the court.

In the fourth round of the tournament, Serena found herself trailing in a match against an up-and-coming opponent. Many spectators and experts questioned whether Serena could overcome her rustiness and mount a comeback. However, Serena, fueled by her conqueror mentality, remained resolute and focused on what she could still achieve.

With a steely determination in her eyes and a renewed sense of purpose, Serena tapped into her immense reservoir of resilience. She fought back, point by point, unleashing her powerful shots and showcasing her unparalleled athleticism. Her positive outlook and unwavering belief in her abilities propelled her forward, refusing to accept defeat.

In an extraordinary display of her conqueror mindset, Serena eventually emerged victorious, securing her place in the next round of the tournament. The crowd erupted in awe and admiration for her indomitable spirit.

Growth-Oriented and Surrounded by Achievers

Conquerors have a thirst for growth and ensure daily personal development through commitments they make and honor. They distinguish themselves from non-achievers by setting daily positive goals and actively achieving them. Moreover, conquerors seek out friendships with inspiring people who are achievers in their respective fields.

Oprah Winfrey, a living icon in the media and entertainment industry, exemplifies the conqueror’s mentality by surrounding herself with a circle of inspiring individuals who are achievers in their respective fields. Through her intentional and purposeful connections, Oprah has not only built a successful career but has also fostered a network of accomplished friends who constantly inspire and uplift one another.

One captivating anecdote that highlights Oprah’s belief in seeking out friendships with achievers occurred during a prestigious awards ceremony. As the evening unfolded, Oprah found herself amid a gathering that included influential figures from diverse backgrounds—captains of industry, renowned artists, celebrated authors, and philanthropists.

Rather than being content with small talk and surface-level conversations, Oprah seized the opportunity to seek out meaningful interactions, eager to learn from their experiences and perspectives. Oprah understood that connecting with inspiring people would enhance her own growth and contribute to her journey of becoming the best version of herself.

During one particular conversation, she had the pleasure of meeting a highly acclaimed author who had recently published a groundbreaking novel. Their exchange of ideas and shared passion for storytelling sparked a genuine connection. Recognizing the value of this newfound friendship, Oprah made a conscious effort to nurture the relationship, establishing a bond built on mutual respect and admiration.

In the following years, Oprah and the author collaborated on several projects, amplifying their impact and inspiring millions of people worldwide. Their collective efforts not only led to creative breakthroughs but also fueled their individual aspirations, pushing them to strive for new heights of success.

Oprah’s commitment to maintaining relationships with inspiring people extends beyond personal gain. She actively promotes a culture of collaboration and mentorship, uplifting others and celebrating their achievements. By fostering a community of achievers, Oprah creates a ripple effect of inspiration that transcends individual accomplishments.

Continuous Learning and Proactive Engagement

Conquerors embrace various learning sources such as books, lectures, meetings with inspirational individuals, and active participation in online forums. They invest their time in gaining knowledge and insights that contribute to their personal and professional growth. On the other hand, non-achievers rely on television, soap operas, and gossip for their learning, hindering their progress.

Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur and innovator behind SpaceX and Tesla, is renowned for his insatiable thirst for knowledge and his unwavering commitment to proactive engagement. An anecdote that encapsulates his dedication to continuous learning and his relentless pursuit of new frontiers is often shared among admirers of his extraordinary achievements.

In the early stages of developing SpaceX, Elon Musk sought to revolutionize space exploration by creating reusable rockets—a concept deemed by many as audacious and near-impossible. Determined to acquire the necessary expertise, Musk embarked on a quest for knowledge that would shape the future of space travel.

Driven by his insatiable curiosity, Elon Musk devoured books on rocketry, propulsion systems, and aerospace engineering. He tirelessly studied the works of industry pioneers and absorbed the lessons of past successes and failures. Instead of solely relying on the expertise of others, Musk actively engaged in discussions with experts, challenging conventional wisdom and fostering a deep understanding of the subject matter.

One pivotal moment in his journey came during a meeting with a renowned aerospace engineer. Elon Musk, armed with his newfound knowledge, posed a series of thought-provoking questions that left the expert intrigued and impressed by his level of engagement. Musk’s inquisitive nature and his willingness to dig deeper propelled him to push the boundaries of what was deemed possible.

Despite facing numerous setbacks and failures along the way, Elon Musk’s commitment to continuous learning never wavered. He recognized that progress and innovation demanded staying at the forefront of knowledge. As SpaceX evolved and ventured into uncharted territories, Musk embraced the role of a lifelong student, immersing himself in the complexities of rocket science, materials engineering, and astrophysics.

Musk’s insatiable appetite for knowledge, coupled with his active involvement and hands-on approach, propelled him to accomplish groundbreaking feats in both the aerospace and automotive industries.

Optimistic Outlook and Focus on Solutions

The day breaks with different meanings for conquerors and non-achievers. Conquerors view each day as an opportunity to contribute something new, maintaining a positive outlook towards the world. In contrast, non-achievers struggle through the day with a bleak and negative perspective. Conquerors focus on what is right in a situation, while non-achievers possess an uncanny ability to discover what is wrong.

The remarkable mindset of Richard Branson, the iconic founder of the Virgin Group, shines a light on unwavering optimism and relentless focus on solutions as keys to success.

During the early years of Virgin Atlantic Airways, the airline industry faced a significant challenge: the devastating impact of the 1980s recession. Many airlines were reeling from financial turmoil, and industry experts were skeptical of any new ventures in such a turbulent climate. However, Richard Branson’s optimism and refusal to succumb to negativity set him apart.

In the face of adversity, Branson saw an opportunity to revolutionize the airline industry and create a customer-centric experience like no other. Rather than dwelling on the challenges and limitations, he focused on finding innovative solutions to overcome them.

Branson gathered his team and encouraged them to brainstorm ways to differentiate Virgin Atlantic from its competitors. Together, they devised groundbreaking ideas that would redefine air travel. They introduced in-flight entertainment systems, comfortable seating configurations, and unrivaled customer service, aiming to turn the journey itself into a delightful experience.

The optimism that radiated from Branson permeated throughout the entire organization. Despite the naysayers, the team remained resolute in their belief that they could create something truly remarkable. Their collective focus on solutions fueled their drive and determination to bring their vision to life.

Soon, Virgin Atlantic soared above the turbulence, attracting customers with its unparalleled service and innovative offerings. Branson’s unwavering optimism and solution-oriented mindset had successfully disrupted the status quo, forever changing the way people perceived air travel.

At SMS Varanasi, we seek to instill attributes and attitudes in all our students through workshops and holistic development.

Choosing the Right Role Model

Now that we have examined the qualities of conquerors and non-achievers, it is crucial to choose the right role model for success. Look around and identify individuals who align with the characteristics of conquerors. These role models can inspire and guide you towards achieving extraordinary results.

TED Talks, a global phenomenon that began in 1984, revolutionized the way we share and consume knowledge. These captivating talks have become a powerful catalyst for providing role models to young people, inspiring them to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable success.

TED, which stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, started as a conference in Monterey, California. Its founders, Richard Saul Wurman and Harry Marks, aimed to create a platform where experts from various fields could share their ideas and experiences in concise, engaging presentations.

Over the years, TED Talks evolved into a global platform accessible to millions through the Internet. Renowned speakers from diverse backgrounds took to the TED stage, captivating audiences with their insights, experiences, and groundbreaking ideas. This growing library of talks covers a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art, psychology, entrepreneurship, and personal development.

What makes TED Talks truly exceptional is their ability to provide role models to young people. Through these talks, individuals who have achieved remarkable success and overcome adversities share their stories, providing a source of inspiration for aspiring individuals around the world.

Today, we have many versions of TED talks. Josh Talks, for example, is quite popular in India. You can watch motivational speakers and inspiring videos during pick-me-up moments and learn from real-life experiences.

Conclusion

By emulating the attributes of conquerors, college students can enhance their chances of success and extraordinary achievements. Maintaining focus, setting positive goals, surrounding oneself with achievers, continuous learning, and adopting an optimistic outlook are key elements of conquering challenges and unlocking one’s full potential. Choose your role models wisely and let them inspire you on your journey from ordinary to extraordinary.

Remember, you have the power to become a conqueror and achieve greatness.