How people measure success, both in business and in life, is as important to choosing a partner organization as their list of accomplishments.

Individuals and companies that are exceptional at judging talent and capabilities work through general assessments quite quickly, and spend more time focusing on behavior and culture fit as a true indication of what a person, team, or partner organization is capable of achieving…..in other words their potential for success.

Below is an overview of how a very successful man, Colin Powell, has defined his rules for success.

Colin Powell is the son of modestly educated immigrants to the United States, who was raised to be a gifted leader and eventually became Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the US military. The following are some of General Powell’s personal rules for success:

• It isn’t as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
• Get mad, and then get over it.
• Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
• It can be done.
• Don’t let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
• Check small things.
• Share credit.
• You can’t make someone else’s choices. You shouldn’t let someone else make yours.
• Remain calm. Be kind.
• Have a vision. Be demanding.
• Don’t take counsel of your fears or those who say it can’t be done.
• Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier. (In the military, one is always looking for methods increasing or multiplying your forces).

…Colin Powell