People who have reached any significant level of success agree there are a few things successful people have in common; desire and determination combined with a spirit that never gives up.

To illustrate the point that it is always too early to give up, this article includes three well-known success stories.

Ray Kroc: At the age of 52, Ray Kroc had suffered for years from arthritis and diabetes. Although Ray had poor health, and his bladder and most of his thyroid had been removed, he never stopped believing in himself and his biggest idea. It led to the start of McDonald’s in 1955. By 1961, 228 McDonald’s restaurants had been established and sales had reached $37 million. When Ray passed away in 1984, there were 7,500 McDonald’s outlets around the world. The number of outlets and sales are still growing.

Ray Kroc was described as a simple man with a simple plan:
1. Never give up
2. Always persevere
3. Don’t forget part 1 of the plan

Thomas Edison: Before perfecting the light bulb, Thomas Edison tried between 9,000 and 10,000 different things searching for the right material that would make a good filament. When a reporter asked Edison about failing more than 9,000 times, he responded by saying he had not failed, but had found 9,000 items that did not make a good filament. Edison went on to invent many other useful items, many of which are now taken for granted. Edison received 1,093 patents, more than any other person in U.S. history.

Thomas Edison had a formula for his success:
1. It takes time for greatness
2. Be patient
3. Persistence is the key

Colonel Sanders: The founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken was turned down over 1,000 times when he tried to interest others in his recipe for chicken. He drove from town to town, often sleeping in his car, calling on restaurant owners. He strongly believed that the secret recipe would eventually pay off. His persistence and belief in himself and his recipe finally paid off in a big way! His tenacity is inspiring, especially when you consider that he found his success when he was 65 years of age.

Colonel Sanders kept his chicken recipe a secret, but he was willing to share his recipe for success:

1. Never quit
2. Always believe in yourself
3. Be patient
4. Be positive

There are countless stories of people from all walks of life who achieved remarkable success. Almost without exception, the same types of characteristics can be found in stories about success.

Being patient and persistent, having a positive attitude and never giving up are the traits that are essential for success.