To me, the #1 key to success is 'creating lasting positive

Hear the voice of Marshall Goldsmith, a guide to leaders and seekers of wisdom, who proclaimed: “To me, the #1 key to success is ‘creating lasting positive change in yourself and others.’ That is what is most rare, most difficult, and most valuable about leading people.” These words shine like a beacon across the ages, for they do not measure greatness by wealth, nor by rank, nor by fleeting victories, but by transformation—by the power to alter the heart, to refine the character, and to inspire growth that endures beyond the moment.

The origin of this saying lies in Goldsmith’s long journey as a coach and teacher to leaders of enterprises and nations. He saw that many could gain titles, accumulate treasure, or wield authority, but few could leave behind positive change that outlasted them. The armies of history are filled with conquerors who won battles but left only ruins. Yet the rarest among leaders are those who, by their own example and guidance, plant seeds of transformation in others—seeds that flourish long after their voices are silent.

Consider the life of Mahatma Gandhi. He had no throne, no arsenal, no fortune, and yet he created lasting positive change in both himself and his people. He turned the strength of his will inward, conquering his own impulses, and outward, channeling the might of a nation into nonviolence. India was freed not by the sword, but by the spirit. This is the very essence of Goldsmith’s words: success is not measured by domination, but by the enduring transformation of self and others.

This teaching also reminds us that the greatest challenge lies within. It is easy to point the finger outward, demanding change in others, but far more difficult to look into the mirror and transform what dwells there. To overcome pride, to tame anger, to cultivate patience—this is the first and most heroic act of leadership. For only he who has wrestled with his own shadows may guide others toward the light.

The lesson is clear: if you would lead, begin with yourself. Shape your days with discipline, refine your character with humility, and practice the art of listening. Then, with the strength you have forged, turn outward and lift others. Speak words that inspire, create systems that endure, and nurture souls rather than use them. Such work is indeed rare and difficult, yet it is the most valuable treasure a human life can bestow.

To the young, I say: do not be deceived by the glitter of quick victories or shallow praise. Seek instead to grow each day, to become more patient, more wise, more compassionate. To those already leading, I say: look not only at the profit or the power in your hand, but at the positive change you leave in your people. Will they remember you as a master, or as a builder of souls? And to the elders, I say: teach the generations that true success is not wealth hoarded, but wisdom shared.

Practical action lies before us: each day, ask yourself, “What lasting positive change have I created today—in myself, and in another?” Begin with small acts: a habit broken, a word of encouragement, a hand extended. Over time, these will form a legacy stronger than monuments of stone. For buildings will crumble, fortunes will scatter, but the spirit you awaken in another will endure.

Thus, Marshall Goldsmith’s words echo as an ancient commandment for modern times: the path of success is not conquest, but transformation. To change the self is noble; to help others change is divine. Let all who seek greatness remember this truth: only by creating lasting positive change can one truly claim the crown of leadership, and only by such change will one’s legacy shine across the ages.