Relationships are everything. When you’re young and in school, the highest GPA, the math wiz or the best test taker may mean something. However, in most of the post-school world, it’s all about relationships. 

Success is full of critical qualities that cannot be measured such as integrity, grit, proper temperament, persistence, and adaptability, to name a few. Simple competence, being reliable and likable, along with the above qualities, will literally kick doors open for you. 

I know multiple business people whose clients wait months or even a year simply to do business with them. Why? Because their reputation is so strong. Who needs to spend thousands on advertisements when word of mouth works better…and is free. 

You would want to work with people like that, so become like that. Simple, but not easy. Educate yourself in terms of personal development on building “soft skills”, creating networks, forming relationships which are mutually beneficial. Avoid the path of least resistance and become a part of the ‘Good Ole Boy’ network. It works, it’s easier, more profitable, and lots more fun.