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How To Attain The American Dream

How To Attain The American Dream

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Credit: Getty ImagesPeople often confuse The American Dream with the unalienable rights of "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" from the Declaration of Independence. But the expression, "The American Dream," is attributed to a book called The Epic of America by James Turslow Adams, written in 1931.

In it, the author wrote: "The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement."

Therefore, the American Dream is simply a vision of a better life. Should we all agree on what that means? Of course not. One man may equate success with raising a family while another celebrates the fact that he has avoided getting anyone pregnant. We all have different values and goals. And as you strive to attain your American Dream, consider these guidelines:

Define success

What you choose to do for a living should reflect your strengths, values and interests. As the late, great comedian George Burns said: "I'd rather be a failure at something I enjoy than a success at something I hate." Create your own definition of success and know how to recognize The American Dream when you have attained it.

Decide what is important to you. Is it becoming a millionaire, working at a job you really enjoy, having a family, or all of the above? Avoid measuring success by comparing your job title or pay scale to other people's.


Education includes more than just high school, college, grad school, or learning a trade. It involves observing people, acquiring new skills, pursuing new interests and hobbies, and generally keeping your mind fresh and alert. Challenge yourself. Learn a few useful phrases in another language or research new marketing strategies. Travel when you can and meet new people. Be open to learning. When opportunity knocks, you want to be ready.

Work smarter

Improve your time management skills — plan your projects; multitask; prioritize your "to do" list; delegate. Produce quality results without spending excessive hours hunched over a computer, on a job site or in an office. Don't be afraid to decline taking on an additional project when you know you won't have enough time to complete it properly. Take control of your time. How can you enjoy The American Dream if you do nothing but work?

Invest wisely

Whether you play the stock market or hide your savings in a sock under your mattress, the important thing is to have a sound financial plan. Wise businessmen understand the importance of investing, especially in a retirement fund, which makes equally good sense for everyone. In case of sudden unemployment, be sure to have saved enough money to cover your living costs for at least 3 months.

Find out why enjoying the ride is just as important as the ride itself

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