Question

There are many highly successful people who have overcome huge obstacles to reach success. Some had difficult childhoods, others faced family or financial crises. While many people could succumb to the hand they had been dealt, these individuals made healthy choices that ultimately led to their success.

For this activity, you will conduct a web search of two to three highly successful individuals of your choice. You can define success as you like, and you can choose anyone you like. If you feel a bit stuck, you could use search terms like “top five successful ____ ” and fill in the blank with a career interest you have, such as “top five successful microbiologists.”

Research their history and struggles and the choices they made that led to their success. You will write at least three paragraphs addressing these questions:

Who did you research? What choices did these people make that helped them succeed and reach their goals?
What choices would have adversely affected their success? Give examples.
How can you use this information to help you reach your goals? How will you make choices that will lead to your success? Give examples.
In addition to these required questions, you will need to come up with at least one self-generated question and provide an answer to your question.

After you answer both the required and self-generated questions, please record any other related questions that come to mind. Often when we are searching for answers to a question, we are prompted to consider other avenues to explore. Please record any additional questions that may come to mind during your research.

If you choose to directly quote your sources, use MLA format for in-text citations. Remember, when you are using information that is not your own, use citations to give credit to your sources. List your references at the end in MLA format. Please use only credible websites—avoid tabloids and satirical websites.

Examples of MLA format can be found at: MLA Formatting and Style Guide

Answer 1

Who did you research? What choices did these people make that helped them succeed and reach their goals?

I researched two individuals: Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling.

Elon Musk, the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, has faced numerous obstacles in his entrepreneurial journey. Despite several failures, he never lost his determination and drive to succeed. One of the choices that helped him succeed was his willingness to take risks. He has made bold moves in his companies, such as launching the first privately funded spacecraft to the International Space Station. He also has a strong work ethic, often putting in long hours to ensure the success of his projects.

J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, faced many challenges before finding success as a writer. She faced rejection from multiple publishers before finally getting her book published. One of the choices that helped her succeed was her determination to never give up on her writing dream. She continued to write and submit her work, despite numerous rejections. She also used her hardships and experiences to create a rich and compelling world in her books.

What choices would have adversely affected their success? Give examples.

For Elon Musk, one choice that could have adversely affected his success was giving up on his entrepreneurial aspirations. After multiple failures, it would have been easy for him to simply give up and pursue a different career. Instead, he continued to pursue his passions and was eventually able to find success.

J.K. Rowling could have let her rejections discourage her from writing. She could have given up on her dream and pursued a different career. However, she continued to work hard and eventually found success as a writer.

How can you use this information to help you reach your goals? How will you make choices that will lead to your success? Give examples.

This information can help me reach my goals by showing me the importance of perseverance and determination. Just like Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling, I need to be willing to take risks and never give up on my aspirations, even in the face of obstacles and failures.

To make choices that will lead to my success, I will prioritize hard work and focus on my goals. I will also seek out opportunities to take risks and learn from my mistakes. For example, I will be willing to take on challenges and projects that push me out of my comfort zone, even if there is a risk of failure.

Self-generated question: How did Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling handle setbacks and failures?

Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling handled setbacks and failures by using them as learning opportunities. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, they never gave up on their goals. They continued to work hard and learn from their mistakes, using their failures as a means to improve and grow.

Additional questions:

How did Elon Musk and J.K. Rowling maintain their motivation and drive over time?

What are some other successful individuals who have faced setbacks and obstacles in their careers?