LOVE PASSION BEAUTY TRUTH
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he Secrets of Success are a set of principles that, when practiced regularly, lead to success. Each secret contains insights acquired through spiritual experience, business management and various real-life encounters. The purpose of this book is to share thirty-one of the fifty-two secrets. It excites me to think that you may embark on a journey of selfactualisation as a result of encountering these secrets. Moreover, the thought that you might achieve your aspirations and dreams through strategising, and embedding some of these secrets into the process of your endeavours, excites me most. It is my hope that the path you might choose to follow will contribute to the welfare, cohesion and empowerment of society. May you awaken your potential, knowing that everything you need is within you.
Dr. Marko Saravanja
“The secret of success is constancy to purpose.”
Benjamin Disraeli
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A collection of Secrets of Success by Dr. Marko Saravanja and Jenna Clifford Presented by Jenna Clifford
I am excited to present to you an empowering tool of thirty one invaluable wisdoms, which enable the unification of the mind, body and soul for the manifestation of intention, love and success. Furthermore, when read and applied consistently, it unlocks the gateway to unparalleled levels of success. These principles originate from Dr. Marko Saravanja of Regenesys and are found in his revolutionary work entitled Secrets for Success, which deeply resonate with me. As was unveiled in my own life, inspiration emerges from the depths of darkness at the most critical of moments and may be communicated subtly or in unavoidable screams. This must be heeded and pursued as it is the lantern that illuminates the path to our true selves. Accordingly, the natural laws that unfold in the ensuing pages are indistinguishably linked to the architecture of our world, and as solutions, they have the power to harmoniously elevate humanity and nature. Embrace what lies ahead and relish in an enriching journey of self-discovery and growth.
Jenna Clif for d
Art jeweller, Philanthropist and United Nations MDG3 Ambassador for Women Empowerment and Gender Equality
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“Everyone of us“Without needs toleaps showofhow imagination, much we care or dreaming, for each other we and,lose in the the process, excitement careoffor possibilities ourselves..” Princess Gloria Steinem Diana
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Secret
No.
1
- VISION
Have a vision. Think big. Dream! Business success is created twice, first in the mind and then in the external world. Vision is a source of motivation, passion and success. If you strive for the impossible you will achieve the best possible. Take the risk, be courageous, become extraordinary. You are on this planet to accomplish a unique mission. Believe in the beauty of your dreams. Do not stop dreaming!
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H aving a vision is the first step you will take towards accomplishing your dreams.
Define what you want, write it down and meditate on it daily. Your mind is powerful - thoughts become things. Jenna’s Gem
REFLECTIONS My vision for my life is: ……............…....................... ........………............…................................................ .........………............…............................................... My vision for my career is: ………............…............. ..........………............….............................................. ...........………............…............................................. ..........………............….............................................. Vision thoughts: ..................................................... ........………............…............................................... .
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“Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities.� Gloria Steinem
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Secret
No.
2
- PERSEVERANCE
Every great success, in business or in your personal life, begins with a dream or a vision. But the road between dream and reality is full of obstacles. When everything goes wrong you will have to choose between giving up or persevering. You will have to choose between cynicism and gratitude. Contrary to popular belief, the distinguishing feature between ordinary and extraordinary success is perseverance and not intelligence and talent. Dreams and perseverance are winning formulas for success. Accept that obstacles are there to make you stronger. Dream, persevere and your vision will become a reality.
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on’t allow your past to serve as an obstacle to your success. Allow your pain to fuel your fire to succeed. You need to find your story and explore with ways of bringing it to life. My business began 25 years ago after my second husband left me and I needed to make a living. There will always be an opportunity to turn the bitter to the sweet. How apt are Helen Keller’s words when she says: “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired and success achieved.” Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS Obstacles which have made me stronger: ……...... ............………............…............................................ My gratitude list: ……............…............................... Perseverance thoughts: ……............…....................
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“Souls are like athletes that need opponents worthy of them if they are to be tried & extended and pushed to their full powers.� Thomas Merton
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Secret
No.
3
- INNOVATION
A mysterious, invisible and powerful force responsible for the birth and development of a business. Every business starts with an innovative idea. As the business matures, innovation becomes a competitive advantage determining its future success. The end of innovation is the end of the business. Innovation is a resource. It is free and exists in abundance. Every organisation has creative people capable of producing innovative ideas. But their talent is often wasted due to the absence of strong leadership. If your leadership style lacks the ability to nurture innovation - change it. Manage innovation. Awaken your potential, knowing that everything you need is within you.
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braham Lincoln said: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” This quote is permanently on my mind. The key to innovation, certainly today, is to follow the consumer. Technology and the consumer are rapidly changing. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS Making time for idea generation: ………............... ………..………............…........................................... ………............…........................................................ ……............…........................................................... Innovation thoughts: ………............………............ ………..………............…........................................... ………............…........................................................ ………............…........................................................ 13
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.� Margaret Mead
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Secret No 4 .
- DECISIVENESS
Rather make a decision today than wait to make a perfect decision when it is too late. All great leaders have one thing in common - decisiveness. They have the courage to make an unpopular decision when faced with difficult choices. Every decision involves risk. At times, the risk is so great that many avoid making a decision in fear of failure. Ironically, procrastination often results in a greater loss than the loss of making a wrong decision. Indecisiveness leads to missed deadlines, unmotivated staff, project paralysis, loss of quality, and often loss of millions of rands. Indecisiveness, procrastination and risk avoidance these are the greatest obstacles on your path to success. Take the bull by its horns! Be decisive!
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ormer UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher said: “The lady’s not for turning,” in response to opposition to her liberalisation of the economy. Her refusal to perform a u-turn became a “Thatcherite” motto, strongly associated with her boldness and confidence to make decisions and keep to them. Trust your instinct and inner voice. Your intuition is powerful - you should listen to it. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS Great leaders who inspire me: .................................. .................................................................................. Decisions I need to make: ...................................... ............................................................................. Decisiveness thoughts: ........................................ ............................................................................ ............................................................................. 17
“We will never have all the facts to make a perfect judgment, but with the aid of basic experience we must leap bravely into the future.� Russell McIntyre
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Secret
No.
5
- LEARNING
Your ability to learn faster than your competitors will be to your advantage. But knowledge without action is worthless. Your ability to translate your learning into action and master the forces of change will be to your competitive advantage. But action and knowledge without ethics are dangerous. Your ability to base your actions on foundations of strong values, ethics and morals will be to your ultimate competitive advantage. • Liberate yourself and embrace learning as a lifelong process. • Invest in learning as the knowledge will stay with you forever – it cannot be taken away from you. • Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
M y grandfather always said that readers are leaders. It’s not to say that academic learning
is the only form of learning. Invest in your personal and professional development. All successful people see the value in self investment. Knowledge is key in any industry - a hunger for improvement and perfection is your most lethal weapon. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS Ideas for self-improvement and further learning: ..... .......………............…................................................. .......………............…................................................. Books I would like to read; ....................................... .......………............…................................................. .......………............…................................................. J e n n a ’ s to p th r e e bo o ks;
• Who Cooked the Last Supper? by Rosalind Miles • A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle • A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson
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“All things aregenerations ready, if ourthat minds be is so.as ” “We need to remember across there William Shakespeare much to learn as there is to teach.” Gloria Steinman
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Secret 6
No. - P L A N N I N G “If you don’t plan, you plan to fail.” When you set goals, they work two ways - you work for them and they work for you. Translate your vision into a business plan. Set goals for the rest of your life and break them into yearly, monthly and weekly targets. Be disciplined, persevere, monitor your goals continuously and experience the joy of accomplishing them. Successful people are great strategists and planners. They always plan a few steps ahead, they are pro-active and they plan for risks and contingencies. They manage the future instead of allowing the future to manage them. Planning is a source of their confidence, direction and strength. Experience the power of your mind - what you think you become. Ideas transform into a reality if nurtured over a period of time. Plan and succeed.
I ’m a night owl. As I climb into bed I think about the following day and what lies ahead. I jot
things down that I need to do, I sketch and scribble. This simple process allows me to go to sleep having put thoughts and reflections to paper, knowing what is to come. However, some people use their time and strategise more effectively in the mornings. I like Robin Sharma’s concept of the 5am club. He says: “Join the 5am Club. Your most valuable hours are 5am - 8am. They have the least interruptions.” Whichever time of day works best for you, make sure you carve out some time daily to plan ahead and think of the future. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS Goals and plans for this year: ................................... ………............…........................................................ Goals for the next five years: .................................... ………............…........................................................ Planning thoughts: ................................................... 25
“All things are ready, if our minds be so.” William Shakespeare
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Secret
No.
7
- INSIGHT
Successful people have insight - the ability to see clearly and intuitively into the nature of a complex problem, opportunity or situation. But, insight is inhibited by our old ways of doing things, mental models and inertia. Insight requires thinking laterally and seeing things from a different perspective. It requires creative processes and new ideas. Insight requires combining emotional and spiritual intelligences with intellectual and scientific processes. Studies on insightful people suggest that experience is as important as mental flexibility. In addition to this, insightful people are able to manage their knowledge and access key patterns fast. Every organisation has insightful people. But their talent is often wasted due to ineffective leadership not harnessing potential. Nurture insightful people - they are your organisation’s most valuable assets.
They are instrumental in exploring new opportunities and solving complex problems. Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
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ight with the eyes of the mind - insight is a true gift, and one which requires a clear and balanced mind to gain access to. Set aside time for solitude every day, your best ideas are born here. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS What can I do to get out of my box? (E.g. a new hobby or a change in routine): ……......................... .….............................................................................. Dates for my next moments of quietness: ............... ……........................................................................... Insightful thoughts: …..........................…................. 29
“Every person needs to take one day away. A day in which one consciously separates the past from the future.� Maya Angelou
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Secret
No.
8
- POWER
Successful people are good at managing their inner power. They are also good at utilising the power of others, including their enemies, to achieve their goals. They lead from behind, they are humble and they inspire their followers. They give away their power and become more powerful. Power comes from within, but you do not own power - you put it on like a garment every day. You are powerful beyond your thoughts. Use your power wisely - to develop and not to destroy - do not allow power to corrupt you. Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
N obody explains the greatness of your inner power better than Marianne Williamson,
and every time I read this my inner Godly power is reaffirmed. Jenna’s Gem
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.” Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love - 1992
REFLECTIONS What, if anything, is inhibiting my power? .............
........…………............….................................................... What can I do to access my power? ........................
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“We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.�
Marianne Williamson
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Secret
No.
9
- EXCELLENCE
Excellence breeds success. Many centuries ago, Aristotle defined success as a habit. Excellence is developed by changing your mind set and approaching every single task with care, diligence and rigour. Excellence is about exceeding the expectations of those you interact with - surprising them, amazing them and loving them. It is about attention to small things, about “running the extra mile” and about striving for perfection. Excellence comes from working with passion, out of love and in truth. Everything you do in your life is a reflection of yourself. Stamp your work with excellence and success will follow. Say no to mediocrity - it is the enemy of excellence - don’t accept second best. Be excellent. Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
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xcellence is not achieved overnight, it takes years if not a lifetime to become excellent at your craft. Consistent excellence is crucial for building a reputation of excellence. Protect your name, it’s your best asset. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS In my pursuit of excellence I will: ……................... .......…....................................................................... .......…....................................................................... My mindful statement of excellence: ……................ ..........….................................................................... ..........….................................................................… Excellence thoughts: ……..........................…........... .........…..................................................................... .........….................................................................…. 37
“I am easily satisfied with the very best.�
Winston Churchill
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Secret
No.
10
- QUALITY
Everyone aspires to quality but very few are capable of delivering and sustaining it. Outstanding achievers strive for quality in all their endeavours especially, to quote Henry Ford “when no-one is looking.� Striving for quality requires a mind set of inner motivation, not an external locus of control. Quality is a holistic concept that embodies all aspects of an organisation, from the humblest service to the highest strategic goals. Over the years, many quality management fads have come and gone. Whatever the method adopted by an organisation, at the heart is a profound belief and commitment to the pursuit of excellence by all its people. Quality is not something to be pursued occasionally by a few, but an activity that requires continuous reflection and improvement by all. Eat, drink, think, dream and live quality - and success will follow!
Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
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he reality is that the great achievers of this world have one thing in common - a tireless devotion to quality in every endeavour. To perfect your results, you need to perfect your level of execution. Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS My defined “quality” rules: ……..........................… .......………............…................................................. .......………............…................................................. Areas in my life which impede the “quality” philosophy which need improvement: ……............ ..............….......………............…............................... Quality thoughts: ……..........................….......…… 41
“Quality is not an act. It is a habit.”
Aristotle
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Secret
No.
11
- COURAGE
The greatest obstacle on our path to success is fear. Fear enslaves our life - our spirit, mind, heart and body. Successful people are courageous. They are able to confront fear in situations of uncertainty or danger - to walk through fear. Courageous people defy rules, persevere and expand horizons by breaking through their inner boundaries of comfort. Courage is not the absence of fear, it is resistance to fear. It is the ability to bear pain. The source of courage is internal - it resides in the mysteries of love, truth and spirit. Those who are internally confident do not fear the external world. Courage combined with perseverance is magic that dissolves obstacles and opens the door to success and freedom. Live bravely - because blessings follow the brave. Awaken your potential knowing that courage is within you.
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ourage is my most important virtue. It is in our darkest moments that miracles occur and we receive a truly beautiful gift from the universe when we confront our fears and challenges with a heart full of courage. I am ever inspired by these words from Eleanor Roosevelt from her book, You Learn by Living, published in the 1960’s. Jenna’s Gem
“The encouraging thing is that every time you meet a situation, though you may think at the time it is an impossibility and you go through the tortures of the damned, once you have met it and lived through it you find that forever after you are freer than you ever were before. If you can live through that you can live through anything. You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, `I lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.’ The danger lies in refusing to face the fear, in not daring to come to grips with it. If you fail anywhere along the line, it will take away your confidence. You must make yourself succeed every time. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” 45
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“You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”
Eleanor Roosevelt
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Secret
No.
12
- COMPASSION
Compassion is the ability to identify with another’s feelings and to empathise. It is about a deep awareness of the interdependence of everything in the universe. Our education system fills our brain with knowledge yet not our hearts with compassion. Yet compassion is the pillar of all morality, peace and development. Many years ago, Albert Einstein said that “we free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature”. The mind is not a match to the heart. Compassion softens our hearts, purifies our souls and develops our intuition. It helps us to tune in to difficult situations and make the right decisions in both our business and personal lives. As we develop spiritually, we exhibit a greater capacity to care. Let your greatest passion be compassion.
Awaken your potential knowing that compassion is within you.
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love how Marko has touched on the heart of compassion in his 12th secret. Of all the virtues we strive for, let compassion be your priority. “One love, one heart” is what Bob Marley spoke of, have you ever witnessed a more compelling truth? Jenna’s Gem REFLECTIONS My statement of love and compassion: ……............ ..............…................................................................. How can I be more compassionate towards other beings? ……..........................…................................ .................................................................................. How can I show more kindness to myself? ….......... ................…...............................................................
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“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.� Dalai Lama
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Secret
No.
13
- RISK-TAKING
There cannot be success without risk-taking. All great achievements, discoveries and developments in human civilisation have been driven by risk-takers - people with courage, who took risks, leapt into the unknown and pushed the boundaries of the known. Successful people have a particular outlook on risk - they view risk as an opportunity while risk-avoiding people view risk as a danger. Risk-taking people are driven by the thrill of uncertainty, living on the edge and taking chances while risk-avoiding people seek comfort in certainty and routine. Risk-taking distinguishes leaders from followers. The greatest danger in life and business is to risk nothing. Risk-taking encourages creativity and innovation and builds confidence and resilience - which are the keys to success. But risk-taking has to be responsible and ethical. It has to be with intent and not by chance. It has to be understood and managed.
As individuals, organisations and a country we must take more risks than ever before - that is the only way to lead our companies, country and the global economy to prosperity, peace and development. Be a risk-taker. Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
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f you don’t push your boundaries, you risk living in the veil of an unclaimed self. Do something that scares you - take up public speaking. This is something that frightens most people, however, few realise that by breaking their comfort zones and engaging their fear, the benefits will far outweigh the initial feelings of vulnerability and anxiety. Jenna’s Gem
REFLECTIONS Challenges I would never dare to do before but may consider: ....................…...………............….................... Thoughts: ..................…...……….....................…...........
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“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.�
Helen Keller
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Secret
14
No. DELAYED GRATIFICATION
This is the act of postponing a reward or satisfaction. Research has shown that successful people have the ability to delay short-term reward for long-term gain. Professor Walter Mischel from Columbia University experimented with four-year-old children to assess their ability to delay gratification. Children were given one marshmallow and told that they would get an additional one if they didn’t eat it within fifteen minutes. Tracer studies conducted later on showed that those children who were able to delay gratification were more successful in school, business and life. Indeed, self-discipline and an ability to wait are vitally important qualities that determine long-term success in both our business and personal lives. Saving money, university studies, sacrifices at work and in the family these are all examples of delayed gratification.
The greatest leaders, strategists and businessmen have this quality - they have all been able to sacrifice short-term pleasures for long-term goals. Nelson Mandela, Warren Buffet and Mahatma Gandhi are some great examples from recent times. Let your greatest gratification be delayed gratification. Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
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he ability to delay gratification comes down to impulse control and it is one of the most important skills to learn to have a satisfying and successful life. We live in a consumerist world - we can shop online today and have something delivered to us by tomorrow. We can buy a car and settle the amount over years to come. My father taught me that you should always be saving at least ten percent of your monthly salary. Do this for many years and the rewards will be tenfold. Jenna’s Gem 57
“Delaying gratification is a process of scheduling the pain and pleasure of life.� Morgan Scott Peck
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Secret
No.
15
- HARD WORK
Blood, sweat and tears - these are absolute requirements for success on your path to prosperity and freedom. The only way to make progress in life is to work hard at it, whether in business, politics, academia, family, spiritual life, art or sport. There are no shortcuts - you have to earn your success. This is a law that governs the universe - whether you call it Newton’s law of action and reaction or karma. There are no free lunches in this world - someone has to pay for them! An entitlement mentality leads to failure. Things we get for free don’t last. Winning the lotto or a big business deal often sows the seeds of destruction. You have to earn and build your success in a sustainable way - little by little and over a long period of time. In our increasingly competitive world there are winners and losers, we must work harder, more than ever before.
That is the only way to lead our companies, the country and the global economy to prosperity, peace and development. Be a hard worker. Awaken your potential knowing that everything you need is within you.
I always reinforce to my team that there is no good replacement for hard work, no viable
alternative and no efficient substitute. Hard work is in a league of its own and this means rolling up your sleeves and doubling your efforts. Jenna’s Gem
REFLECTIONS My hard work resolutions: ..........‌.......................... .................................................................................. .................................................................................. .................................................................................. 61
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, but I knew the woman I wanted to become.” Diane von Furstenberg
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Secret
No.
16
- ETHICS
The greatest problem facing human civilisation today is that we are losing deep human values integrity, compassion and respect. We are constantly faced with temptations to compromise ethics and take a shortcut road to riches. Our desires for money, sex, power and fame often translate into corruption, lies, love affairs or crime. A minute of pleasure leads to many years of suffering. And by valuing wealth above ethics we lose everything. Ethics are a set of moral principles or laws of the universe that govern the behaviour of a system - be it an individual, organisation or society. Ethics is the glue that keeps different elements of the system together - without ethics the government, business or society cannot function properly. Leaders in government and business will have to invest more and more in corporate governance and building ethical organisations. Ethical behaviour
should be accepted as a source of competitive advantage because it promotes organisational integrity and fairness and generates passion, trust, commitment and high performance.
Dr. Martin Luther King said that “if we are going to go forward, we must go back and rediscover those precious values - that all reality hinges on moral foundations and that all reality has spiritual control.” Be a person of values. Be ethical. Awaken your potential knowing that the power of making ethical decisions is within you.
I ntegrity is everything and ethics should precede economics. We’ve seen the results of
capitalism without conscience, it forms a really scary picture of the future. Now is the time for all generations to stand up and become conscious of their actions and how these affect us all. Jenna’s Gem 65
“The first and best victory is to conquer self.”
Plato
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Secret
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No. EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE The majority of problems in our personal lives and organisations are related to relationships and not material things. Relationship management skills are about empathy, integrity, negotiation and compassion - a set of abilities called emotional intelligence. Although seemingly simple, these competencies have a most profound and strategic effect on people and organisations. We are living in an era of information and a global knowledge economy where human capital is increasingly valued more than financial capital.
Emotional intelligence is an ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions and those of others i.e. to direct, control and express feelings in order to make the right decisions, act effectively and achieve a set goal. It is about transforming anger into love, depression into excitement, and fear into freedom.
Emotional energy, when managed and channelled in the right direction, propels an individual or organisation to a higher level of performance by generating commitment, happiness and passion required for success. This energy becomes a source of competitive advantage.
The opposite is true, for when emotional energy is mismanaged, it creates a vicious cycle of destruction and unhappiness which leads to depression, conflict, demotivation, and low performance. Be wise - invest in the development of emotional intelligence. Awaken your potential knowing that emotional intelligence is within you.
EQ is your greatest asset in business and in life, it is to be nurtured and protected at all costs. I am always very aware of the way I make people feel and I make it my duty to be kind to everyone I meet. Jenna’s Gem 69
“What you do today can improve all of your tomorrows.”
Ralph Marston
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Secret
18
No. SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE
In the past, people thought that IQ or rational intelligence was a requirement for success. IQ helps us to solve problems by using logic, analysis and reason. As the business world changed, intellectual capital became a buzzword, challenging financial capital. Recently, IQ has been challenged by emotional intelligence (EQ). EQ is an ability to manage one’s own emotions and those of others in order to achieve set goal. Daniel Goleman, the world’s authority on EQ, argues that emotional intelligence (EQ) is another intelligence that has powerful influence on our success in life. As the business world changed, emotional capital became the buzzword, challenging intellectual capital. Currently, EQ has been challenged by spiritual intelligence (SQ). SQ is about intuition, insight and awareness. It is about wisdom, meaning and truth.
Danah Zohar, an expert in SQ, argues that SQ is the highest form of intelligence and that SQ is the foundation for effective functioning of both IQ and EQ. As the business world changes, spiritual capital is becoming the buzzword, challenging emotional capital. Charles Darwin said “it is not the strongest species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the ones most responsive to change.” Be wise invest in the development of spiritual intelligence. Awaken your potential knowing that spiritual intelligence is within you.
I n addition to self-awareness, spiritual intelligence implies awareness of our relationship
to our Creator, to each other, to Mother Earth and all beings. Jenna’s Gem
“The knowledge of the Spirit is the true secret of creativity, leadership and happiness. It is spiritual intelligence that makes an ordinary person a genius. When a genius loses his spiritual intelligence, he becomes quite ordinary.” Awdhesh Singh
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“Intelligence is the ability to understand the problem and find a solution to that problem.�
Awdhesh Singh
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Secret
No.
19
- SELF-DISCIPLINE
Successful people have strong will-power that withstands the temptation of moving astray from the path of righteousness. Self-discipline requires us to keep control of our actions, to choose short-term discomfort over long-term failure and to confront our fears and difficulties without procrastination. Conquering our bad habits before they conquer us requires mastering our thoughts because if we don’t control what we think, we can’t control what we do. No one achieves greatness without discipline. Comparatively, when practiced every day, self -discipline leads to peace, order and stability. Thus, win the victory over yourself and your dreams will come true.
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elf-discipline is an inconvenient truth for many of us as retaining it requires consistent dedication and a high dosage of determination. It is my resolute belief that positive discipline applied towards the practice of any endeavour is omnipotent to success. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION Every day I improve my will-power through persistent practice. ................................................................................... ................................................................................... ................................................................................... ................................................................................... ................................................................................... ................................................................................... ................................................................................... 77
“Your playing small does not serve the world.�
Marianne Williamson
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Secret
No.
20
- SELF CONFIDENCE
History is full of ordinary people who became heroes through the sheer power of self-confidence. If we are confident that we can accomplish something, we can acquire the capacity to do it even if we don’t have it now. Undoubtedly, people with mediocre talent accompanied by inner drive go further than people with higher talent in the absence of self-confidence. Those who lack self-confidence seek confidence externally, without realising that it comes from within and that it is there all the time.
Tests of our confidence arise at our darkest moments and these offer us the greatest opportunities to realise our deepest powers. The best way to develop our self-confidence is to face fear head-on and to tackle the things that we think we cannot do. Be tough enough to follow through and when you cannot find the way, make one.
Be bold and trust yourself.
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elf-confidence, which in the echoing words of William Shakespeare conveys “to thine own self be true”, is inseparably rooted to the deep understanding of being one with our maker and is undoubtedly a blessing. It can be bestowed upon one through a great deal of love and positive encouragement encountered within the home environment or it may comparatively be self-taught. Regardless of the manner in which it is instilled, it is an essential ingredient for life functioning and for the success that is ultimately attained through clarity of vision. Jenna’s Gem
MY AFFIRMATION I am an infinite being capable of extraordinary things every day. .........…...................................................... ...................................................................................
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“Self-confidence is the first requisite to great undertakings.�
Samuel Johnson
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Secret
No.
21 - M O T I V A T I O N
As a precursor to success, motivation is about awakening dormant potential, which transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Enthusing, inspiring and breathing in positive energy, motivated people can move mountains. Unmotivated people comparatively become depressed, angry and cynical - having a contagiously destructive effect on those that surround them. Improving motivation requires ideals, vision and gratitude. It requires investments of time and resources. Sustaining high-level motivation requires daily positive reinforcement and above all, it requires long-term programming of action in order to transform our thinking, attitudes and behaviour. Develop and manage motivation. Begin by motivating yourself. Only then can you motivate others.
I t is always beneficial for individuals of any circumstance to lucidly define what they require in
life and to additionally identify their innermost desires of being in order to unlock their inner motivation. This defined philosophy of the ravenous desire of being creates convenient pathways for inducement, which ignites the inspiration to achieve success. Thus, spend time with yourself in uninterrupted tranquillity to reflect deeply on your profound desires and set yourself on the path of motivation without hesitation. Jenna’s Gem
MY AFFIRMATION Every day I am more and more motivated to work on creating my dreams. ................................................................................... ................................................................................... 85
“What you do today can improve all of your tomorrows.”
Ralph Marston
87
Secret
No.
22
- CREATIVITY
Creativity is the ability to use imagination for the development of new ideas, knowledge and solutions to problems, which distinguishes leaders from followers and success from failure. In today’s rapidly changing and volatile business world, survival is dependent upon harnessing the power of creativity as a source of competitive advantage. As creativity is the spirit that ensures renewal, reinvention and regeneration, without it, organisations are doomed to become obsolete and extinguished. Journeying into the unknown as a discoverer rather than a settler, creativity revolves around doing things differently and defying the norm. Creative people have the ability to connect unrelated ideas in order to develop new knowledge. Furthermore, as a resource, creativity is highly
strategic and yet free, being derived from imagination, instinct and intuition. Be creative, be smart and be an original thinker. If you believe firmly in an idea, pursue it to its fruition in spite of the obstacles. Awaken the dormant genius within you and unleash the miraculous energy of creativity.
T
he indispensable and propelling ingredient of creativity is forged with one’s being in mind when one focuses on the appreciation of the abundant beauty of nature and the positivity that is inherent in life. Moreover, it is undeniably honed through the ability to take cognisance of inspired viewing in combination with one’s passion and foresight. This, intertwined with repetitive positive self-talk will ensure the inspiring presence of creativity. Seek and beckon the creative genius within yourself today. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION Creative energy flows through me at all times. .
89
“Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we have learned here.�
Marianne Williamson
“Creativity itself is divine. Creativity itself is godliness.�
Osho
109 91
Secret
No.
23
- PURPOSE
Purpose is indispensable to success. When purpose is forgotten, life becomes meaningless, dull and directionless - ultimately resulting in failure. Years of monotony in the same organisation or personal relationship may lead to saturation, conflict, disappointments and disillusionment. Additionally, our purpose is often clouded by problems at work or at home. Therefore, we have to continually remind ourselves of the reason that we are here and invest time and resources into developing a strong sense of purpose. Existential questions that we need to ask ourselves throughout our lives should focus on the purpose behind our lives, the vision behind our organisation and whether our lives and organisations are truly reflective of those.
Purpose is the thing that keeps us going during our darkest moments, providing a source of meaning, energy and direction along with a source of motivation, commitment and passion. It is the spirit of success.
H
aving a determined sense of purpose towards one’s mission is a mind action for success, which additionally drives the power of intention. In acknowledgment of this, unlock your deepest purpose in order to attain your most desired goals. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION I am creating a life of passion and purpose. ..................................................................................
.................................................................................. 93
“Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.” John F. Kennedy
95
Secret
No.
24 - L O V E
This refers to the ability to love unconditionally, which is a simple yet powerful feature of successful people. When ordinary people are loved, their hearts, minds and souls light up. This awakens their dormant potential, enabling them to achieve the impossible. Love propels human performance and generates commitment, passion and success. Further to this, it is the best performance management system and the greatest conflict management technique, finely improving quality. Love works in miraculous ways - developing the weak, humbling the arrogant, and dispelling negativity. It is undoubtedly spiritual power and the source of life. If we could replace the love of power with the power of love, we could make our world a much
better place in which to live. Our lives are shaped by what we love and how we love. Thus, if you love, you shall be loved and blessed in return.
L
ove in its purity is unconditional and is the highest energy resonance that is attainable in life. Being ethereal and tangible, it is a soul endeavour, which introduces power through the passion that it ignites. Be kind, be gentle, and love will afford you incomparable strength. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION By constantly sending love into the world, I am continually receiving love from others.
.................................................................................. .................................................................................. .................................................................................. 97
“Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn.”
Marianne Williamson
99
Secret
No.
25
- CHANGE
The ability to change rapidly and continually is now, more than ever, a distinguishing feature of successful individuals and organisations, as only through constant change, learning and renewal, can we be successful.
Organisational change is difficult, agonising and frightening, involving a great deal of triumph over resistance. Similarly, on a personal level, it requires courage, perseverance and the ability to bear the pain of transition as we remove old attitudes, behaviors and ways of doing things. Successful chain management involves maintaining stability during change and maintaining change during stability.
Change should be aligned to our purpose and therefore driven by the highest order of our powers, starting from the spiritual and moving through the emotional, intellectual and physical.
We have to change ourselves before we attempt to change the external world.
M any individuals do not have the understanding that change is a natural law and driving
force of the universe, which is indispensable to progression, in the absence of which life itself would stagnate and perish. This is partially owing to the fact that many of our systems have corrupted change as an essential ingredient for success. Through reading and the acquisition of knowledge, the benefits and necessity behind change can be better grasped and embraced for the attainment of our greatest selves. Thus, be the change that you would like to observe in the world and inspire a beautiful and more positive place for yourself and others. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION Changes in my life are positive and empowering. 101
“When you can’t change the direction of the wind, adjust your sails.” Napoleon Hill
103
Secret
No.
26
- SACRIFICE
Success in life comes through sacrifice, which refers to the ability to give up a personal need for a more important organisational priority or a greater societal cause. Every time we make a sacrifice, we earn credits that accumulate and repay our investment multiple times in the future. It requires the courage to give up short-term pleasure for long-term success. In order to be different from the majority we need compassion, a proactive attitude and spiritual wisdom that recognises the transitory nature of worldly pleasures. Ascension entails giving up. Thus, if you are rich give your wealth and if you are poor, give your heart.
S
acrifice, which entails the innate understanding of delayed gratification in return for abundant future reward, is an essential energy in the dedication of one’s path. When it is applied positively and consistently in the field of a desired endeavour, it inevitably leads to success, truth and accreditation of character. Therefore, sacrifice is an imperative prerequisite for success, provided that it is applied to one’s time and not to one’s heart or soul. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION Small sacrifices I make now will bloom into wonderful blessings later. ...........………............…............................................. ..........………............….............................................. 105
“Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never the result of selfishness.� Napoleon Hill
107
Secret
No.
27
- HONESTY
“In a world characterised by rapidly changing morals, one of the greatest, yet simplest, challenges facing our leaders is to remain honest. Universal laws dictate that the truth cannot be hidden from the universe and that the wheels of justice accordingly move slowly but surely. Good actions create good reactions and honesty is a source of inner peace, happiness and freedom. If we are going to build a glorious society and worldclass businesses, we have to do it on the strongest moral foundation: honesty, the source of all values. Let honesty be your greatest competitive advantage. Follow the truth wherever your life takes you and awaken your potential, knowing that the power of honesty is within you.�
H onesty is an acquired attribute, which commences from an early age in life and begins
with the self. This foundational honesty within is imperative as the relationship that we have with ourselves becomes mirrored in our relations with others in the external world. Furthermore, honesty requires godly and selfassessment, as fear and retribution frequently hinder it. Follow the path of honesty within your life and grasp your integrity and success. Jenna’s Gem
MY AFFIRMATION My soul heals through honesty and truthfulness. ..........………............….............................................. ...........………............…............................................. ..........………............….............................................. ...........………............…............................................. .
109
“When you walk a life of honesty, you live a life of truth.�
Therese Benedict
111
Secret
28
No. TAKING RESPONSIBILITY
Taking responsibility for problems is the attitude distinguishing successful people from the unsuccessful. Successful people act and find solutions to problems while unsuccessful people comparatively wait, complain and do nothing. Moreover, successful people are action and solution focused. They work towards uniting, inspiring and building people. By taking responsibility, they remain in control of their lives and cultivate inner strength, peace and success. They utilise their energy in a constructive manner, ultimately becoming role models and a source of inspiration to their colleagues. Take control. Focus on solutions, opportunities and positivity. Be wise, compassionate and grateful.
Manage your life instead of being managed.
M any individuals dread responsibility as it entails energy, effort and delivery, which may
appear to be burdensome. Thus, it is either desired and accepted or comparatively evaded. However, when embraced, responsibility blossoms into the greatest gift as when paired with intention, it leads to our hopes, dreams and wishes. Moreover, those who assume responsibility elevate themselves above the rest as the more you do, the more that you will become. Rise to the ‘burden’ of responsibility and allow it to transmute into the gift of success. Jenna’s Gem
MY AFFIRMATION
I accept total responsibility for my actions, emotions, thoughts and beliefs. 113
“The price of greatness is responsibility.�
Winston Churchill
115
Secret
No.
29
- POSITIVITY
Successful leaders recognise the strengths of their people and focus on the positives rather than on the negatives. They promote and reinforce good attitudes, behaviours and performance through acknowledgment and reward. Negativity breeds destructive energy and fear which discourages people, stifles creativity and kills organisational spirit. The opposite is also true: positivity breeds constructive energy, which unleashes human and organisational potential. Successful leaders awaken and nourish this potential by focusing on the positive. They turn talent into performance by taking risks and giving chances to those whose talents are undiscovered. Focus on solutions and opportunities rather than on problems and threats.
Focus on strengths instead of weaknesses. Be positive, enthusiastic and compassionate.
P
ositivity arises when our food of thought predominantly consists of good things, which is difficult to regularly maintain in a world of prevalent negativity. However, a positive mind set driven by belief is the only way to grow anything prolific and reading is one of the essential ways in which to ensure this. Jenna’s Gem MY AFFIRMATION All my thoughts are positive, healthy and abundant. ........………............…................................................ .........………............…............................................... ........………............…................................................ 117
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.”
Helen Keller
119
Secret 30 THE LAW OF ACTION & REACTION No.
“For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In physics, this law is known as Newton’s Third Law of Motion. Aristotle argued that our world is governed by law and not by chance, that everything happens for a reason, whether we like it or not and regardless of whether we understand why. The law of cause and effect is also relevant in our spiritual and emotional spheres of life. Although invisible, our thoughts and feelings are pulses of energy that cause specific reactions. If we assume the supremacy of mind and spirit over matter, we can conclude that our thoughts and feelings have a powerful influence on all spheres of our lives: physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual.”
T his is a pertinent natural law as it substantiates the fact that whatever is invested is to
be reaped, which is why it is pivotal for one to apply the principle of delayed gratification. Any input that is centred upon a negative fight-or-flight energy is not good for the soul and is to be guarded against for the attainment of success, unless it is paramount for survival in a mortal situation. The mind is immeasurably more powerful than delusion or reaction, thus, ground your being in love and understanding, evaluating the full extent of the initiating action. Jenna’s Gem
MY AFFIRMATION By taking positive actions, I bring more positive results into my life. ..........………............….............................................. ...........………............…............................................. ...........………............….............................................. 121
“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.”
Wayne Dyer
123
Secret
No.
31
- INDEPENDENCE
Successful people have the ability to maintain their independence despite the influence of their colleagues, the media, religion, organisational culture and society at large. They are able to rise above negative influences and see the bigger picture. It is tempting to indulge in the intrigues of petty politics and power struggles but it takes extraordinary wisdom and strength of character not to become involved when being lobbied by others. Instead of taking sides, wise people invest their energy in a constructive manner finding solutions to problems and rectifying negative behaviours. Fundamentally, they choose to develop rather than to destroy. Although independence sometimes creates loneliness and isolation, in the long run it earns confidence, respect and power.
This results in a source of freedom, peace and happiness. Be independent, free and unique. Listen empathically and act constructively whilst being committed to truth, fairness and principles.”
I ndependence on both a fiscal and personal level is an attribute that I fervently advocate as it
makes one accountable for one’s own energy, conferring the ability to be fully responsible for thought, deed and action, which when correctly applied results in a lack of need. This, once achieved, can additionally be graciously used in order to uplift others in their plight and honours the free will that we were graced with as human beings. Jenna’s Gem
MY AFFIRMATION I am a confident, independent thinker. I am always aware of the truth, independent of the approval of others. ……............…............................................... 125
B EFORE
A FTER
“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself aloud.”
Coco Chanel
B EFORE
A FTER 127
On the 25th anniversary of the Jenna Clifford brand, we reflect on our magical journey and share some of these memories with you. Celebrating not only the beautiful creations along the way, but beautiful friendships too.
129
MOMENTS IN TIME
Three Tenors, Jenna Clifford, Luciano Pavarotti, Nelson Mandela & Alan Knott-Craig
“The hardest thing to
find in life is balance especially the more success you have, the more you look to the other side of the gate. What do I need to stay grounded, in touch, in love, connected, emotionally balanced. Look within yourself.�
Celine Dion
Celine Dion
Celine Dion
131
MOMENTS IN TIME
Jenna Clifford & Archbishop Desmond Tutu
133
Carla Else
Suzette van der Merwe
MOMENTS IN TIME
Jenna Clifford, Lindiwe Sisulu, Ryk Neetling - Paedriatic Cardiac Centre for Africa
Albertina Sisulu
“Everyone of us needs to show how much we care for each other and, in the process, care for ourselves.� Princess Diana
135
Christie Brinkley and Sailor Brinkley Cook visits South Africa
MOMENTS IN TIME
“Share your smile with the world. It’s a symbol of friendship& peace.” Christie Brinkley
137
MOMENTS IN TIME
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Nelson Mandela
Serena & Venus Williams
139
MOMENTS IN TIME
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Deborah Messing
Gert-Johan Coetzee
Lucas Radebe
Kimberlin Brown
Maya Angelou
“I’m doing it the African way and I’m swimming faster than I ever did in my life.”
Ryk Neetling
Ryk Neetling
141
“But he who dares not grasp the thorn should never crave the rose.�
Anne Bronte
143
145
About
REGENESYS BUSINESS SCHOOL
Regenesys is a leading global business school. Since 1998, Regenesys has been chosen as a preferred educational institution by over 100 000 students and 1 000 reputable local and international clients in some 195 countries. Regenesys is proud to be one of the most entrepreneurial, innovative, technologically advanced and fastest-growing business schools in the world.
Dr. Marko Saravanja the founder and director of the Regenesys Business School. He is passionate about higher learning and entrepreneurship which has led to the initiation of a game-changing project at Regenesys that is providing the world with free access to business education. “Secrets of Success� was first published in 2006 and is is a compilation of 52 principles written by Marko for those brave individuals who wish to achieve extraordinary success. Marko has inspired, energised and changed the lives of thousands of people from across the world. Marko Saravanja
Entrepreneur, Academic and Development Worker
To find out more or order the book, email: info@regenesys.co.za 147
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South Africa
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Share your thoughts with us on social media using #J CPea rl sof W i s d o m an d # G e m s f o r G re a t n e s s A copy of this book can be found & shared online at JennaClifford.com
Copyright subsists in all Jenna Clifford jewellery designs and can only be manufactured by Jenna Clifford Designs (Pty) Ltd. Jenna Clifford Designs (Pty) Ltd will prosecute for any perceived infringement an/or reproduction thereof. 2018 Second Edition