Herm Allen attended the public school system in Cleveland, Ohio where he finished fourth in his graduating class. This, along with being actively involved in student government, athletics and the school newspaper, provided the necessary “stuff” to be admitted to Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. Being the first in his family to attend college, this was both an exciting and intimidating experience; not to mention “culture shock.” Herm went from a predominantly African-American school experience to a predominantly white institution.

Up for the challenge, he decided to choose accounting for his major. This was one of the most challenging majors at Wittenberg. He began his college experience on an upbeat attaining a 3.00 overall GPA his first two terms, then…

The bottom fell out. Not more than a year later after graduating fourth in his class he was now on academic probation. The following fall term (sophomore year) was more of the same, except for this time he was a candidate for academic dismissal – that’s right, a one-way ticket home. Having to face his family with this was probably the most humbling experience he has had to face.

Now it was time to F.O.C.U.S.^© or GO HOME!

If it were not for influential individuals in his life at the time of his academic “slide” and his commitment to succeeding, only God knows what may have happened. Herm has dedicated his career ensuring that students, regardless of age, F.O.C.U.S.^© on their future. One of Herm’s favorite quotations is, “students don’t care how much you know until you show them how much you care.”

INTRODUCTION

There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation,

hard work, learning from failure.

  Gen. Colin Powell

          I want to first congratulate you on taking a step towards reaching your chosen goal (or goals). You, no doubt, are serious about the direction in which you are headed. The principles covered in this booklet will put you on the correct path to your future. At this point you may have questions as to whether or not you are headed in the right direction; and some of you may not have an idea at all as to where you are going.

           Regardless of your position, these principles will give you direction. Before we get to the 5 success principles, I want to share with you some foundational information that may help you in your pursuit.

 The Importance of Goal Attainment

    You have been planning a trip to California. The bags are packed; the car has been serviced and you have the itinerary mapped out. “California, here I come.” You already know it’s going to take you a few days to get there, but so what! This has been something you have wanted to do for a long time. A lot of planning has gone into it and you know the end result is sunny California.

    Graduating high school, college or professional school; starting a business, reaching financial independence or successfully changing careers all should be pursued with the same excitement and persistence as planning a trip. We all have goals (at least we should) that will make our lives just a little bit better. Imagine your future being EXACTLY as you envisioned. Debt free. Successful. Happy. Whatever that vision is of your future, it is only limited by the confines of your own mind. On your quest, however, be prepared for setbacks or obstacles.

Obstacles to Reaching Your Goals

    In the example of our trip to California, there is a possibility that something may prevent or at least pose a challenge to reaching our destination. Let me share a personal example with you...