SUCCESS Your Trusted Guide to the Future of Work Tue, 11 Nov 2025 17:21:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.success.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-success-32x32.png SUCCESS 32 32 Career Reinvention After Divorce: Turning a Life Change Into a Career Pivot https://www.success.com/career-reinvention-after-divorce/ https://www.success.com/career-reinvention-after-divorce/#respond Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91414 Divorce can spark a career reinvention. Discover expert insights and real stories on how to rebuild confidence and pivot professionally.

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Close to 2 million people divorce each year in the U.S., and one in three people who have been married have experienced a divorce. Divorce can be heartbreaking, financially difficult and exhausting, but it can also come with the motivation to reinvent yourself, both personally and professionally.

Oona Metz, a Boston-based psychotherapist with 30 years of experience helping women navigate divorce, is the author of the book Unhitched: The Essential Divorce Guide for Women publishing in 2026. She shares that women are using the pivotal personal decision to get a divorce as a launching point to upskill, change careers or start purpose-driven businesses, as an evolution of their identities. 

Some people seek deeper meaning, while others realize they just want to have some fun. For example, Kristina Rajzer, based in Slovenia, posted recently on LinkedIn about how her own divorce stripped down her life as a strategist and in its place, she found a new passion—“I did the only thing that felt alive. I bought a DJ set.” 

Whether your new personal reinvention translates to a full career trajectory pivot or whether you simply develop a new work-adjacent hobby, divorce can be the inciting incident that pushes you toward the career you’ve been dreaming of.

Using emotional reinvigoration to go for your dreams

For some, divorce pushes them to head out on their own, whether it’s to become a consultant, contractor or freelancer or to build their own business. “I was head of brand marketing at The Knot when I was going through my divorce,” says Amanda Goetz, author of Toxic Grit: How to Have It All and (Actually) Love What You Have. “Post-divorce I built and sold a VC-backed consumer packaged goods business, wrote a book and built a portfolio career before taking a new CMO position,” showing that not all career pivots after divorce move you into an entirely different field, but rather some push you to accomplish your individual dreams.

“There is a ‘phoenix rising out of the ashes’ emotional bump that you get when you come out of the emotional fog of divorce,” Goetz adds. “I also was able to fully focus on my career when my ex had the kids because he now had to take up the cognitive load of raising them.” 

Like Goetz, Metz shares that many of the clients she’s worked with find themselves looking at those career changes toward the end of the divorce process. This is a mix of financial uncertainty and the emotional expenditure it takes to actually get divorced. “So a lot of times people have to wait till the dust settles,” she says.

Clearing out toxicity during career reinvention for women after divorce

Metz sees not only women reinventing themselves, but also “renegotiating boundaries” in their lives and relationships. “Not only the relationship with their spouse, but also their relationship with other people—I’ve seen people decide to leave an abusive or critical spouse, and then they kind of realize ‘Oh, my boss is like that too. I’m also going to leave my boss.’ They realize there’s so much relief in leaving an abusive marriage that they [ask] what other relationships they’re going to clear out of now too.”

Metz has especially seen a rise of people who want to move into helping roles, such as becoming therapists themselves or even coaching others through divorce. For example, after her own divorce, Olivia Howell, CEO of Fresh Starts Divorce Registry, established a network of vetted, helpful resources, which includes Metz, for those going through divorce. Doing so enabled her to build a new career for herself.

Changing work responsibilities to accommodate emotional turmoil

It can be almost impossible to maintain work responsibilities during the toughest days of divorce. It’s a struggle Chedva Ludmir, CEO and founder at Consider Labs in Tel Aviv, knows well. She says as someone who’s a part of an “ultra orthodox” religious community, she was essentially excommunicated when she got divorced.

“I didn’t anticipate this happening to this extent, and as someone who considers herself quite resilient, I also didn’t expect how much this would affect my work. Not only did I find it hard to lead the agency in the direction I already plotted and strategized, I also found it next to impossible to focus on strategic work,” she says. “Even when I eventually did, my confidence was so shattered that I couldn’t pitch myself or the agency to new clients and even turned down opportunities that arrived at my door, referring them to colleagues because it was hard for me to see myself as an expert, despite many years of experience and proven success.” 

She had to postpone the next season of her podcast, for example, because she couldn’t picture talking to an audience while going through that. Instead, her career changed in that she “focused on very execution-oriented, tactical projects” for a time. 

She calls her work life before her reinvention a “very scary” time.  She eventually took time off to work on a book and also birthed a new business called Consider Labs.

“For the first time in my life, as someone whose work has always been inherent to my sense of self, I lost interest in work—and at the time when I most needed to make a living.… During that time, I did a lot of work reminding myself that my identity is more than my career and also more than that time in my life.”

She’s not alone—research found that almost 44% of people getting divorced reported a negative impact of the experience on their work. But the impact isn’t permanent. The research also showed that work engagement and performance improve a year after the divorce.

Financial independence after divorce

While sometimes people reinvent themselves out of a drive to pursue a passion, others are simply trying to make more money at a time when financial stability is top of mind. Metz says she’s seen multiple women who have been trying to figure out how to make money after being stay-at-home moms prior to their divorces because “women do lose financially during divorce.” 

While some of them head back to school, Metz hopes women will consider the cost of making a career change, as sometimes more schooling means multiple years with little to no income. “You have to really be realistic about how much it’s going to cost you,” she says. “Do you need to go back to school in order to achieve this or do you need to start at the bottom of the pile and work your way up in a new career? That can cost money.” She notes that self-employment can come with its own costs that people should consider too.

A successful life after divorce

While it might seem a daunting road ahead, building a new career path during or after divorce may not be as arduous as you think.

Ludmir says, “I’ve gone through a few career pivots and reinventions prior to this one, but this one was the easiest and the most embodied of all of them because I didn’t have the added pressure from a spouse who doesn’t get what I do professionally. Also the hard career decisions seemed so much easier in comparison, and I’ve risen from the divorce someone who trusts herself more implicitly—making it easier to explore this reinvention.”

Photo by Moon Safari/Shutterstock

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Inbox, Upgraded: How Fyxer AI Tames Email Overload https://www.success.com/fyxer-ai-email-overload/ https://www.success.com/fyxer-ai-email-overload/#respond Tue, 11 Nov 2025 17:21:50 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91525 Discover how Fyxer AI helps leaders cut through inbox chaos, automate replies and focus on strategic work instead of email management.

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Email remains one of the most essential communication tools in modern work, yet it has also become one of the most time-consuming in the new digital age. For many leaders, the volume of incoming messages now competes directly with their capacity to focus on strategic priorities. Routine requests, administrative follow-ups and constant context switching create an environment where attention is fragmented and decision-making slows. 

Reclaiming focus in the age of overflowing inboxes

Fyxer AI is designed to address this imbalance. By intelligently organizing, prioritizing and assisting with responses, it reduces the cognitive load associated with managing a high-volume inbox. Instead of reacting to emails as they arrive, leaders gain a structured, considered view of what genuinely requires their input.

Professionals are realizing that the challenge is no longer simply responding to email but maintaining clarity and momentum amid constant digital demands. The inbox has become the heartbeat of daily work, yet it often beats too fast. AI offers a way to restore rhythm: not by replacing human judgment, but by handling the repetitive, reactive tasks that consume valuable attention.

Americans are drowning more than ever in admin, according to a Fyxer survey of 1,000 workers. Six in 10 say endless emails, meetings and coordination leave them burnt out, while more than half admit these tasks chew up over a quarter of their day. Almost three-quarters say AI assistants could free them to concentrate on the work that counts. 

What sets Fyxer AI apart is that it doesn’t just see emails as a queue to clear. It reads the room. It understands who’s getting in touch, why it matters and how urgent the situation really is. So instead of you trawling through threads and mentally ranking what to deal with first, it does the groundwork for you. It can draft a considered reply, highlight what needs your input and quietly handle the rest.

There’s a small adjustment period where Fyxer gets to know you: the people you correspond with most often, the cadence of your responses, the messages you typically prioritize. Once it has that context, its recommendations and draft replies start to feel intuitive rather than automated. 

Getting started with Fyxer AI

First, you’ll want to connect your inbox and calendar. According to Fyxer’s Help Center, you can get set up in just a few minutes by linking your Gmail or Outlook account and your calendar. The process is straightforward: give the required permissions, allow Fyxer to access incoming emails and meeting invites and you’re off. Setting this up early means Fyxer can begin working—sorting your inbox, identifying what needs a reply and capturing meeting data from day 1. 

Once Fyxer is connected, the next step is to let it study your style and start adapting. The Help Center instructs you to customize things like how your inbox is categorized, turn on conversation view and define your preferred tone and labels. Fyxer drafts responses on your behalf, but it learns from how you edit them: The more you review, tweak and send, the better it becomes at matching your voice. 

Most users begin their mornings with a quick review of the system’s “To Respond” view, where messages have already been sorted and prioritized. Instead of confronting a wall of unread emails, there’s a clear sense of what genuinely needs attention. After meetings or calls, Fyxer provides summaries and suggested follow-ups, making it easier to close loops rather than letting conversations drift.

For teams, adoption can be gradual. Shared settings and organizationwide reference documents help ensure the system understands internal language, roles and recurring communications. Multiple inboxes and calendars can also be connected, allowing Fyxer to manage coordination tasks that often get pushed to the side.

Taming the email avalanche: Fyxer frees leaders to focus

Glenn Sanford, CEO of eXp World Holdings and leader of SUCCESS® Enterprises, has noted that this cognitive load is one of the most persistent drains on productivity for ambitious professionals. The difficulty isn’t email itself but the ongoing effort of separating signal from noise in a fast-moving environment.

He says, “Email is the bane of any busy achiever. The signal-to-noise ratio is low and most of the tools out there don’t help that much. Fyxer, on the other hand, is the most intuitive AI platform I’ve found that truly increases my effectiveness by both sorting emails that are important and drafting high-quality responses with often no need to edit. Reducing cognitive load in a world full of noise, finding the right emails and drafting the right responses to those emails is truly Fyxer’s superpower.”

Inbox chaos doesn’t have to rule your day. By handling routine tasks, highlighting what truly matters and learning to match individual communication styles, Fyxer allows leaders to reclaim time for strategic thinking and crucial decision-making.

Photo by fizkes/Shutterstock

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Your Digital Footprint Is Your Resume Now: Here’s How to Optimize It https://www.success.com/digital-footprint-optimization/ https://www.success.com/digital-footprint-optimization/#respond Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91438 Your online presence now defines your professional brand. Learn how to optimize your digital footprint for visibility and career growth.

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Not long ago, your résumé lived on a single page: bullet points, dates and degrees lined up neatly for human resources to scan. Now, it’s scattered across the internet. Your tweets, your LinkedIn posts, even the podcasts you’ve liked—all of it adds up to something employers read long before they meet you. Your digital trail now provides the most comprehensive view of your professional story.

That might sound unsettling, but it’s also empowering. Because, unlike a static document, your online presence is alive and evolves every time you share a thought, publish a project or respond to someone else’s ideas. The question isn’t just what you’ve done anymore, but what your digital self says about how you think, what you value and how you show up in the world.

Your online footprint is becoming your most valuable credential

Powerful online tools now help connect your name with your ideas, projects and achievements across the web. For professionals who want to grow, this creates unprecedented opportunities to share work, find collaborators and build meaningful networks. Think of the internet as a dynamic portfolio that reflects your evolution and distinct voice. 

AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are giving everyday people the tools to look expert, polished and credible online. These platforms are now using AI to pull together a person’s top work, achievements and online presence into clean, searchable summaries. That means when someone searches your name, whether it’s a hiring manager or a collaborator, they’re more likely to see the highlights, not the noise. It’s helping people showcase what matters most about their mission and skills, without having to constantly micromanage their footprint.

Being findable is just as important as being knowledgeable

Personal brand PR strategist Michelle B. Griffin says AI is quickly becoming the core force behind who gets recognized online. “Tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, Perplexity and Gemini now surface experts based on clarity, credibility and visibility. It’s not about posting the most; it’s about connecting the dots between a clear profile, credible mentions and valuable content that reinforces your authority,” she advises. “In many ways, PR and earned media are becoming digital proof points that AI uses to identify and recommend trustworthy experts.”

Experts suggest treating your digital footprint as an ongoing conversation instead of a carefully curated showcase. Sharing what you’re learning often connects more meaningfully with audiences and employers than listing accomplishments alone. Authenticity tends to outshine perfection, and sometimes that means being open about the setbacks or missteps that shape your progress. Demonstrating curiosity, crediting others’ ideas and engaging openly in professional discussions are now seen as key indicators of credibility in an online world that rewards genuine participation over self-promotion. 

Algorithms reward profiles that are relevant, active and credible

Your personal profile can live almost anywhere online, but no platform offers a better place to sharpen your image, tone and trajectory than LinkedIn. “Every thoughtful post, every article you publish, every meaningful comment or conversation you spark adds to your ‘expertise footprint.’ On LinkedIn, content that invites genuine interaction (comments, discussion) boosts how the algorithm sees you. On Google, content that’s truly helpful and original helps you show up when people search your name or your topics,” says Aliza Licht, founder of Leave Your Mark and the author of On Brand

“The algorithm aims to surface people who match the needs of recruiters or platform members. In practice, this means that your content and profile must appear relevant, active and credible. According to recent guidance, LinkedIn is giving more weight to ‘experts’ who regularly post insights, commentary or helpful industry content,” she adds. 

An SEO mindset can transform your LinkedIn visibility

Bhavik Sarkhedi is a personal branding expert, award-winning digital marketer and SEO consultant. According to him, getting LinkedIn right means seeing it as a portfolio, not a resume. “Everything should start with an SEO mindset,” he advises. “Optimize your headline, about section and experience with niche-relevant keywords. Activate creator mode and align your content pillars with your expertise.” 

LinkedIn likes this approach because it can clearly see what you do and what you share. When your profile is optimized with the right keywords and your content matches your expertise, it’s easier for the platform to connect you with the right people. Using creator mode and consistent content pillars shows you’re active and relevant, which the algorithm favors. Essentially, the more your profile looks like a portfolio of your work, the more LinkedIn pushes it in front of the right audience.

Creator mode boosts engagement and visibility for professionals

Sarkhedi is convinced that content remains the king currency for showcasing your brand online. He says, “Every post, comment and share either builds or erodes your brand equity. The right mix of storytelling, value and vulnerability shows depth, not desperation. Algorithms thrive on engagement loops; humans respond to resonance.” 

Content is the lifeblood of your personal brand. Every post, video, comment or share tells a story about who you are, what you know and what you stand for. Whether it’s a visual, text or short-form interaction, content creates the proof points that define your brand online. It demonstrates your ideas and highlights your growth. 

Posts with images, documents or videos tend to get way more engagement on LinkedIn than plain text updates. Multi-image posts, for example, average about 6.6% engagement, while text-only posts are closer to 4%. Enabling Creator Mode can also be helpful. LinkedIn says that content from creators using this feature sees a nearly 30% increase in engagement. 

Show your human side: Setbacks and curiosity count online

Be intentional and authentic in everything you share. Don’t post just to fill a feed, focus on content that showcases your expertise, tells a compelling story and sparks meaningful interactions. Mix up your formats: post articles, videos, documents and thoughtful comments. Engage with others, give credit where it’s due and don’t be afraid to show the human side of your journey. Every thoughtful interaction builds your professional presence and reinforces your credibility over time.AI now plays a central role in determining who gets seen and recognized online. Platforms like LinkedIn, Google and AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini analyze your content, profile and activity, surfacing those who demonstrate credibility and an obvious niche. That means your effort isn’t just reaching people, it’s signaling to today’s algorithms that you’re an expert worth noticing.

Photo by Josep Suria/Shutterstock

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The Big Event: Serving Communities Nationwide (and How You Can Too) https://www.success.com/the-big-event-community-service/ https://www.success.com/the-big-event-community-service/#respond Sat, 08 Nov 2025 12:15:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=90852 Learn how over 70,000 students are transforming lives through The Big Event and sparking service projects nationwide.

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This fall, more than 70,000 students have poured into College Station, Texas, to kick off a new school year at Texas A&M University. And every spring, those students give back to the community through The Big Event—the largest one-day, college student–run service project in the nation.

According to Director Reed McReynolds, a junior at Texas A&M, The Big Event is a thank-you to the communities of College Station and neighboring Bryan.

“We take up their roads, we take up their restaurants, we make a lot of traffic and congestion… [so] it’s a really cool way for us to bridge that gap and put a name to a face,” he says. “Yes, we are college students, and we do take up a lot of this city. But we’re here to give back, and we do want to have genuine relationships… so it’s a really good way for the university to partner with the community.”

Since The Big Event was founded in 1982 by Joe Nussbaum, the service project has expanded to 130 events around the nation as students at other universities and high schools have followed Texas A&M’s blueprint. Here’s a closer look at those who have started these nationwide Big Events (and how you can follow in their footsteps):

College students giving back to the community​

For more than 40 years, The Big Event has united the student body and allowed them to connect with full-time residents of Bryan and College Station. The volunteer day embodies all six Aggie core values, but it’s selfless service that takes center stage. With tools in hand, students leave campus and do all types of jobs—such as yard work, window washing, cleaning and painting—for both residential and nonprofit property owners in the community who need a helping hand. 

Although the tangible benefits of property upkeep are undeniable, McReynolds says that one of the “coolest things” about The Big Event is the connection college students make with residents. “People who go and volunteer at these houses.… They make friends with these people,” he says. “Then people request [those same students] the next year to come back.”

To participate, residents file requests for help and student volunteers through The Big Event website. They are then contacted by a staff assistant, who visits the property to meet the owner, document the scope of the job and determine the types of tools that will be needed. In 2025, 17,118 students served 2,374 residents. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers and the magnitude of the event, but selfless service truly shines in the personal interactions this event leads to, leaving a lasting impact on residents and students alike. 

For instance, Associate Director Leila Chang, a senior at Texas A&M, says she bonded with a resident two years ago who she still keeps in touch with today. Chang visited the resident the day before The Big Event to make sure everything was ready for volunteers, and they ended up chatting for more than an hour about plants and the homeowner’s cat.

“I ended up… getting to know her and listen[ed] to her story,” Chang says. “She showed me a lot of pictures of her and her family, and I ended up cat-sitting for her that next month…. It’s those little things that really have that impact on the community, and so I’m grateful for that experience.”  

Spreading student community service nationwide

Mike Hays, a counselor in Texas’ Northwest Independent School District and a 1996 graduate of Texas A&M, brought The Big Event to Northwest High School in 2013. He says that at that time, there was a push for service leadership in public school systems, and he knew that a volunteer program based on The Big Event would provide that type of experience for students.  

“The unity and being like-minded on a project that big is really cool,” he says, “[and] that’s something that also moved me, so I wanted to bring it to the kids.”

According to Hays, NHS’ first Big Event drew more than 1,000 student volunteers, and they completed 30 projects, the bulk of which were for elderly residents who needed help with yard work and cleaning up their properties.

His eldest daughter, Abby Richardson, who volunteered at the Northwest event as a young girl, was inspired as a teenager to start The Big Event at her high school, and later at the college she attended. “When I first heard about The Big Event, even at 11, I was immediately obsessed with it and loved the idea of going out and serving the community,” she says.

Richardson says that her main goal when planning each event was to focus on the people they served. “We wanted the people we were serving to think, ‘Wow, we can’t believe those kids just did that,’” she says. “One year, we moved a boat out of someone’s yard, and the kids pulled weeds and took out brush. It looked like a whole different yard when we were done.” She also recalls celebrating a resident’s 99th birthday while on-site to clean up her yard. “She had on a sash and tiara,” she adds, “and she was just so happy… to have all these students in her home.”

According to Richardson, “anybody can make a Big Event happen. If you’re excited and passionate about the work that’s being done, you can do it. There are resources out there. Find someone in a position of authority [if you’re a student], or if you’re in a position of authority, find a student and figure out how you can make it happen together.”

Richardson hopes to one day found her third Big Event at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, where she serves as assistant director of events.  

How to start a Big Event community project

Chang says that the various Big Events held across the country are unique and aren’t regulated or managed by Texas A&M. Instead, they’re inspired by A&M’s effort and are united by the One Big Thanks Conference, which is held annually to motivate and train students to lead events at their respective campuses.

While The Big Event originated as a student-led project, there’s no reason a corporation or business couldn’t lead a similar project in their respective communities, using A&M’s template. If you’re looking to do so, McReynolds suggests starting small and taking the time to get to know those you’ll be helping.

“Focus deeply on the connection before you do the service,” he says. “If you can start with five or six homes and really get to know [the] people in those homes, then that’s how you get traction and really start to build something that’s really meaningful.”

Matt Anderson, faculty and primary adviser for The Big Event, adds that if it’s difficult to find residents or specific properties to serve, you should reach out to local community centers or nonprofit organizations for assistance. “They really appreciate that help, as well as the residents,” he says.

Here are some other tips to get you started:

  • Get the support of community leaders.
  • Publicize the event to recruit volunteers and secure donations.
  • Start accumulating tools early.
  • Arrange transportation for people and tools to job sites.

McReynolds says that his goals for A&M’s 2026 event include gathering 1,000–2,000 more volunteers and partnering with 500–1,000 more residents. He and Chang are also working to boost internal relations among their team.

“We want to make sure everyone is known and seen and feels like they have a part and can learn from The Big Event,” McReynolds says. 

“It’s been cool to see how one man’s vision to serve the community has turned into a lasting legacy at the Texas A&M campus,” he continues, “where we get to live out one of our core values of selfless service.”

Photo by Hannah Busing/Unsplash.com

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Russell Brunson’s Next Chapter: Preserving the Secrets of Success for the Next Generation https://www.success.com/russell-brunsons-next-chapter/ https://www.success.com/russell-brunsons-next-chapter/#respond Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=90958 Discover Russell Brunson’s next chapter as he preserves success books, builds a legacy library and shares insights on fulfillment in business.

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Growing up, Russell Brunson was, self-admittedly, not “into” books.

“I remember going to bookstores with my mom and being like, ‘Why would somebody come here?’” he says, laughing.

Those who meet Brunson today might find that hard to believe. As the multihyphenate founder of a robust roster of companies (most notably the sales software company ClickFunnels), he’s a New York Times bestselling author and bona fide bibliophile. In the past three years alone, he’s purchased more than 18,000 books.

Today, these tomes are (literally and metaphorically) the story behind his success.

It began in college, after he started his first business selling “How To Make A Potato Gun” DVDs online, earning roughly $1,000 a month in 2005. At a marketing seminar, the speaker asked who had read Think and Grow Rich, a 1937 personal development book by Napoleon Hill.

“Everybody’s hands went up except for mine,” Brunson recounts. Then and there, he connected the dots: “Everyone in here is making money. They all have a business. They’ve all read it. I should read it.”

Think and Grow Rich would be the first of many, many personal development books and similar publications (including early editions of SUCCESS® magazine) Brunson would read and own. So began a career of learning, experimenting and sharing. He recalls poring over endless pages and sitting through countless seminars in search of just “one little nugget.”

But if it was the books that got him interested, the real-life applications of their lessons are what hooked him—after finding one idea in a book, and applying it to his new business, he increased sales by 30% (when he realized that “one little nugget”) could dramatically change one’s chances of success. “I thought, I just gave myself a 30% raise by taking one idea and applying it,” he says. “Then, I became obsessed.”

Game changer

After learning and testing, and more learning and testing, Brunson sought a way to share his findings. Enter: ClickFunnels, an all-in-one online marketing and sales platform. In partnership with entrepreneur Todd Dickerson, Brunson co-founded the software company in 2014, providing a streamlined solution to the very obstacles he had faced in launching and growing his own online sales ventures.

“It was just us testing these different things on a sales page, and learning what would get more people to buy,” he explains. “And it’s crazy, because [it was] the exact same product—exact same everything—but by tweaking a headline or the color of a button, I could go from 3% to a 9% [conversion rate]. I can triple my money from the exact same amount of effort…. That’s how I [became] obsessed with this. Learning that game and how you make these little tweaks and how big of an impact that has. It’s like a little hinge that swings this huge door [open]. It makes the game really fun.”

Today, ClickFunnels helps entrepreneurs apply best-in-market strategies to scale their success online. The company, which hit $100 million in annual revenue within three years of launching—all without any venture capital backing—allows users to create sustainable, successful customer journeys using the “funnel mindset”: attract, sell, upsell, ascend, repeat. “I remember in the early days, I had a mentor who said this one time, and it became my mantra. They said, ‘You’ve got to figure out how to give yourself a raise every day,’” Brunson explains.

With the success of ClickFunnels, his empire grew to encompass numerous other companies, as well as a podcast, social media channels and books, all of which are conduits for sharing these insights. He explains the different mediums are not just different steps along the same customer journey; they’re unique avenues for him to refine his messaging.

“That’s how I look at all the social media platforms. It’s my spot for me to test my material,” he explains. “I’m testing it on Instagram in 60-second reels. Then, on my podcast, I’m going to tell a 20-minute version of it…. I’m trying to see what landed and what didn’t make sense. And, that way, the message gets clearer and clearer.”

With this approach, he proposes that social media engagement may lead to the purchase of a book, which might lead to attending an event, which ultimately can result in the customer signing up for coaching. “That’s where I think the value is, is in the human connection,” he says. “Let’s give them an experience that changes their lives.”

Build it and they will come

It’s why Brunson is building a 20,000-square-foot center near Boise, Idaho, that’s one-part library, one-part museum and one-part event space—a modern-day interpretation of Hill’s dream of a “School for Success.” A place where “all the greatest thought leaders of our time will have a chance to leave a legacy behind for the future,” as Brunson describes it in the pitch video on SecretsOfSuccess.com/atlas.

What will fill such a space? A $12 million (and growing) book collection.

Shortly after unlocking a love of reading, Brunson also discovered another obsession: eBay. “Obviously the greatest site on the entire internet,” he says, laughing.

The successful search for and acquisition of a first edition Book of Mormon sparked a love for owning key historical books, which in turn led to buying an entire collection of Hill’s works, including the manuscripts of unpublished books, signed first editions, early issues of SUCCESS® magazine and other first works in the field of personal development. Brunson also acquired a galley copy (as in, pre-first edition) of Think and Grow Rich for $1.5 million alone. The seller had amassed the collection over more than 20 years; it was so large it required a private plane to transport the entirety of it from Arkansas to Idaho.

With this collection as a base, Brunson describes a vision of a center where people can come (in person and, in the future, via virtual reality devices) and explore all the teachings of the philosophers and thought leaders that came before.

Take Elsie Lincoln Benedict for example. Her book, How to Get Anything You Want, was one of a series of 12 tiny blue books that came with the collection. Benedict was a suffragist leader and famous lecturer, drawing record-setting crowds in the 1920s and 1930s to hear her insights on everything from global matters to emotion and motivation. She would ultimately speak to an estimated 3 million people in her lifetime.

Now, Brunson’s team is republishing How to Get Anything You Want for modern readers. “It’s one of the most timely, fascinating, coolest books I’ve ever found,” Brunson says.

But before there was Benedict, there was Orison Swett Marden, the founder of SUCCESS® and another hero of Brunson’s. After prolifically authoring dozens of books, Marden launched SUCCESS® magazine in 1897 with much of the same style of content you see today: explorations on personal growth, leadership and business insights, and interviews with influential men and women.

“It literally shifted the country. No one was talking about personal [development]…. And then the magazine showed up, and it was the first time someone was speaking success principles into the minds of America as a whole. And I don’t think people understand how big that was,” Brunson explains. “From that, all these other people sprouted up, like Napoleon Hill and Elsie Lincoln Benedict…. But it was the founder of SUCCESS® magazine [who] literally launched this… and changed the country.”

Brunson has almost every issue of SUCCESS® that was published in the 1800s (and is attempting to collect all of them), as well as photographs, signatures and original artworks that became SUCCESS® covers.

It’s works like these that Brunson hopes to preserve and share for future generations through the library. He points to the fact that, back then, these authors didn’t have much proof of their theories; but today, we’re gaining the tools to explain the science behind things like mindset or the subconscious. Access to these early materials shines a light on the genesis of many of today’s philosophies, now proven by science.

“That’s why I’m collecting Napoleon Hill and Orison Swett Marden and all these people who have had such a big impact on me that nobody else even knows about,” Brunson explains. “I need to tell these stories and get them out there…. We’re trying to bring these people’s legacies back, extending those legacies.”

The next chapter

But there’s another book on Brunson’s radar right now as well—his own next publication. Following three previous bestsellers, DotCom Secrets (2015), Expert Secrets (2017) and Traffic Secrets (2020) (as well as 11 privately published books on marketing and sales), Brunson has now set his sights on helping entrepreneurs navigate the deeply personal aspects of success and failure.

“I was an athlete growing up, so, in my mind, success was equal to accomplishment, right?” he says. Eventually, that would change. “I remember Tony Robbins said something to me. He said, ‘Success without fulfillment is ultimate failure.’”

To a high achiever, with eyes always set on the next medal, it can be a tough truth to accept. But the other option is burnout. And Brunson has seen it—in himself and others. “I’ve been on both sides of it. I’m not perfect, but I feel like I’ve got really good balance in my life where I feel fulfilled. I’ve got a great marriage and family; I’ve got a great business, so I’m trying to help people [by telling them], ‘Here’s the things you need to be successful and here’s how to not burn it down.’”

It’s through understanding of one’s subconscious, and one’s mindset, that Brunson says entrepreneurs can achieve success with fulfillment. He says the brain is such a powerful tool for success, but we’re not really given any kind of operating manual for it. He hopes that, with the book, he can simplify things.

“I feel like that’s the place I can be the most efficient in helping [entrepreneurs] right now,” he says. Readers can pick up the book and plug in any goal: win a state title, start a business, fix one’s marriage. “You can take the framework and plug in whatever you are trying to be successful in.”

Success is scientific, he explains—but fulfillment, now that’s an art. “Achievement plus fulfillment equals success…. What is the yin-yang of those two things? It’s the science and the art…, and I think it’s the blend between those two that make you actually successful.”

And while he shares these musings across different platforms, both print and digital, he says he finds books to be one of the most—if not the most—impactful formats. “In the last 20 years, I’ve launched so many courses and products and software, but when I meet somebody at the airport or in a weird place, they’re always like, ‘I read your book. It changed my life’…. They always come back to the book. There’s something about the written word,” Brunson says.

It’s all part of the same vision: resurfacing and republishing works otherwise lost to the archives. Publishing new works. And proving that maybe reading really is the key to success—or at least a step along the way. “I want some kid like me a hundred years from now to find my book on eBay and read it and have it change his life.” 

Discover more by subscribing to SUCCESS+™ to read the print issue in its entirety and so much more.

Photo By Erin Blackwell

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Future-Proof Your Brand Image: Expert-Backed Ways to Modernize Your Business Look https://www.success.com/future-proof-brand-modernize-image/ https://www.success.com/future-proof-brand-modernize-image/#respond Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91364 Learn expert-backed strategies to modernize your brand’s look, strengthen identity loyalty and stay relevant in today’s digital landscape.

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The 21st-century marketplace rewards brands that evolve. From minimalist redesigns to full-scale digital rebrands, more and more companies are rethinking how their visual identity actually reflects their purpose and values. In a hyperconnected world where image and identity intertwine, getting it right is crucial. The way a brand shows up, in design, online and beyond, builds the perception, trust and memory it imprints on people. 

A strong visual identity is critical in today’s digital age

In the age of social media dominance, mobile-first browsing and influencer-driven content, the separation between marketing, design and experience has nearly vanished, demanding near complete authenticity in how brands look and live. In this environment, a brand’s visual identity isn’t just decoration; it’s a reflection of its values and ability to evolve in step with the world around it. 

Before the digital age, traditional advertising maintained momentum for even the strongest brands. Today, perception is earned through not just polish, but proof of evolution and endurance. 

“You measure success not by how different it looks but by how deeply it resonates. The real test of a rebrand isn’t visual polish; it’s psychological alignment,” says Americus Reed II, a professor of marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. “A successful rebrand strengthens identity loyalty—the degree to which a brand becomes part of a person’s self-concept. It doesn’t just get noticed; it gets adopted,” he adds. 

A consistent logo and signature color palette can give a brand the clarity and confidence it needs to stand out and stay remembered. These are examples of what are known as brand assets: the distinctive visual, verbal and experiential elements that make a brand instantly recognizable. Beyond logos and colors, brand assets can include typography, imagery, taglines, sounds and even packaging—all of which work together to spark recognition and emotional connection.

Consistency in visual identity builds consumer trust across generations

For over a century, Coca-Cola’s red-and-white branding has remained virtually unchanged. Its bold colors and flowing script are instantly recognizable, helping the company sustain global visibility, earn consumer trust and generate billions across generations that have made the drink part of their daily lives. The power of this visual identity is undeniable. By staying true to its classic script and bold red-and-white colors, Coca-Cola has built a brand that is instantly recognizable by consumers worldwide.

Cadbury chocolate’s signature purple-and-gold look plays much the same role. Introduced initially as a tribute to Britain’s Queen Victoria, that deep purple quickly became the brand’s signature, signaling luxury, indulgence and national trustworthiness. Over the decades, it’s done more than just look pretty on a shelf: It’s become a shorthand for high-quality chocolate.

The power of color in branding is surprisingly strong. That iconic purple instantly triggers recognition, and for Cadbury, it’s helped the company stand out in a crowded market. Consumers don’t just notice it, they associate it with the taste, the experience and the promise that this chocolate delivers something different. 

How to capture users’ attention before they scroll away

Humans make rapid judgments about people, products and brands within milliseconds of seeing them. Research has suggested that over 90% of these first impressions are based on visual cues: color, shape, typography and overall design, long before any words are read or explanations are offered. 

On the web, people’s attention spans are short, and users are quick to jump to the next thing. That makes grabbing their attention online an even tougher job for digital-first brands. According to data from CXL, visitors focus on an institution’s logo for just 6.48 seconds before moving on, while the main navigation menu captures attention for an average of 6.44 seconds. The search box draws slightly less, at just over six seconds, and the site’s primary image holds the gaze for 5.94 seconds. Even written content only commands attention for 5.59 seconds, with the bottom of a page attracting the least focus on average at 5.25 seconds. 

With attention spans this short, every element on your site needs to work hard. That means making your logo instantly recognizable, designing a navigation menu that’s intuitive and easy to scan and placing key calls-to-action where users will actually see them. Your search box should be prominent and simple, while images need to grab attention immediately and support your brand story.

Written content should be concise, clear and skimmable, delivering value in just a few seconds. Essentially, it’s about creating a visual and functional hierarchy that guides visitors effortlessly through your site, helping them notice, understand and remember your brand before their eyes wander elsewhere. 

Inside-out coherence: Aligning brand purpose with a clear identity

Reed II points to a concept known as “inside-out coherence,” which he says is crucial for modern brands to perfect. He suggests, “Every touchpoint, from your website to your store to your customer service voice, should express the same identity DNA. That starts with internal alignment. Employees need to understand and embody the brand’s purpose before customers ever see a new logo. The most successful brands don’t roll out new guidelines; they roll out new belief systems. When the brand’s inner story matches its outer signals, consumers feel the difference. They sense truth.”

Inevitably, much of the visual transformation and digital innovation driving how brands refresh their look and feel begins online with the best tools available. It’s no surprise that AI is playing a significant role in this evolution. According to recent data from Netguru, 78% of organizations are utilizing AI in at least one business function, marking a substantial increase from 55% the previous year. Specifically, nearly 80% of companies are now leveraging generative AI to enhance their design, branding, strategy and product offerings. 

Simplifying the customer journey through smart digital marketing

Venkatesh (Venky) Shankar is a marketing professor and director at SMU’s Cox School of Business, where he leads the Brierley Institute for Customer Engagement. His research focuses on digital marketing, AI, AR, VR, branding and consumer behavior, advising global retailers on technology-driven growth.

“AI, AR and VR can enhance brand image by making experiences more relevant, immersive and reliable. AI personalizes offers and timing to improve engagement and loyalty, while AR/VR builds confidence and emotional connection through interactivity,” says Venkatesh. He adds: “However, technological reliability is essential. My research shows that even small app failures can erode trust and sales. Businesses should use technology to simplify and elevate the customer journey, not complicate it.”

Shankar advises entrepreneurs and business leaders to “leverage low-cost digital tools, modular design templates and quick experiments to identify what boosts engagement or repeat purchase…. Practical improvements in mobile utility and customer convenience outperform cosmetic updates. In modernization, simplicity, focus and measurement trump big creative budgets.”

The brands that last aren’t just the ones that look modern—they’re the ones that mean it. A refreshed logo or sleek website can spark attention, but sustained relevance comes from coherence and consistency. Every element, from color palette to customer experience, should tell the same story and make the same promise. Modernization doesn’t have to mean massive budgets or radical reinventions. As Shankar notes, the smartest brands use simple data-driven tools to stay close to their audiences and move quickly when expectations shift. The key is to evolve with purpose, not panic.

Digital audiences move fast. People decide whether to engage with a website, app or social post in seconds. That means every visual and functional element should work hard to communicate your brand identity immediately. A recognizable logo, a consistent color scheme, signature fonts and a clear layout hierarchy all help users connect the dots quickly. Consistency in design reduces friction, builds confidence and makes your brand feel professional and reliable for the modern age. 

Photo by PeopleImages/Shutterstock

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5 App Builders That Don’t Require Coding Experience to Bring Your Next Big Idea to Life https://www.success.com/no-code-app-builders-side-hustle/ https://www.success.com/no-code-app-builders-side-hustle/#respond Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:08:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91008 Turn your idea into a side hustle with these 5 no-code app builders. Save time, cut costs and build professional apps without coding skills.

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If you are looking to take the leap and turn your idea into a side hustle, no-code app builders can be a game-changer.

When it comes to starting a new business venture, time and budget are not always on your side. This is why many side hustlers turn to no-code app builders, potentially reducing app development time by up to 90% compared to traditional coding methods and saving up to 70% on development costs.

With the help of the right platform, you can launch your very own app without having to write a single line of code. There are countless no-code app builders available now, but knowing which one to choose can be the difference between a basic app and a professional online presence that maximizes your chances of success.

How no-code builders have changed the world of app creation

For budding entrepreneurs who are looking to bring their new side hustle idea to life, the addition of no-code app builders has changed the landscape. 

Having the opportunity to create fully functioning apps without any prior web design or development experience means that the opportunities available are vast. Previously, the creation of an app would’ve been incredibly costly—a huge barrier for many who are only just starting out.

For side hustlers, being able to use no-code tools means they can bring their vision to life through pre-built templates and drag-and-drop interfaces, creating professional-looking apps in a fraction of the time as a custom-built one. 

5 no-code app builders to bring your idea to life

If you are ready to turn your side hustle idea into a reality, let’s get started! Creating your very own app is the first step in bringing your side hustle to life and getting your name out there.

Here are five of the most effective no-code app builders so you can establish which is the most suitable for the nature of your very own app.

1. Glide

Glide is an ideal option for service-based businesses as it helps create functional solutions that improve daily operations.

At a basic level, Glide uses your existing spreadsheet system to structure your app and bring your historical data across. You can adjust the design to manage the way your data is presented and add new features to automate processes and improve the functionality. 

This is a particularly effective solution if you run a service-based business that uses booking systems or inventory management. Since it can create aesthetic interfaces that can be used with ease, the everyday running of your business can be enhanced without the need for expensive software solutions.

As you can see from the image below, Glide apps can be set up to create a clean interface that prepares you to facilitate the growth of your side hustle. Being able to efficiently manage your business, however quickly it takes off, is a big weight taken off your shoulders.

Glide
Photo from glideapps.com

2. Hostinger Horizons

Apps that allow users to track their progress are becoming increasingly popular, and if you’re looking to jump on the bandwagon, Hostinger Horizons should be your go-to app builder.

Whether you’re creating an app that helps people meet their fitness goals, keep on top of their finances or manage their to-do lists, Hostinger Horizons makes it as simple as possible to create a new app (without the need for any coding whatsoever).

Unlike many of the older app builders out there, this one uses AI to generate web apps in just minutes. You type your idea in, along with any requirements you have for your app, and it will generate a solution that you can then edit to fit your own preferences. Since Hostinger specializes in web hosting, they also offer a range of cheap hosting plans.

Nowadays, AI is opening up endless opportunities, and utilizing the opportunity to create AI-powered apps before they become commonplace can help you get ahead of the competition and make your mark.

Hostinger Horizons
Photo from hostinger.com

3. Bubble

If you are looking to build an SaaS app, Bubble is likely to be your no-code builder of choice. It’s suited to more complex workflows as it offers more advanced features and customization options in comparison to other builders.

Being ideal for apps that offer each user the opportunity to log into their own personal account and access your service, Bubble makes it possible to set up individual dashboards with varying monetization features.

Although many users consider Bubble a little trickier to get used to than other no-code platforms, it is best matched to those looking for full flexibility. From the initial architecture of your app all the way to the individual workflows, you will be in charge of selecting the features you wish to include.

If you’re looking to create a quick app from a simple drag-and-drop template, Bubble is not for you, but if you want to create a more advanced app with custom workflows, the platform can be incredibly rewarding.

Bubble
Photo from bubble.io

4. Softr

If you are looking to create an app to sell your own goods, Softr is a great platform to consider. The interface is ideal for setting up e-commerce apps, offering a range of templates and features that cater to store owners.

There are various ways to display your product offerings in an aesthetic manner that will make it easier for shoppers to browse through your range and add products to their cart. Softr also makes it easy to manage the checkout process and handle payments safely and securely.

From a backend perspective, orders and inventory can be managed within the same app. Your existing data, whether stored on Airtable or Google Sheets, can be connected to keep all workflows in one place and ensure it doesn’t need to be duplicated across different platforms.

Softr
Photo from softr.io

5. Appy Pie

When you’re in the initial stages of bringing your side hustle to life, it can be an overwhelming process. If you’re just starting out and want a quick and easy no-code app builder, Appy Pie is most likely to be the go-to.

It has been designed to help complete beginners and small businesses grow, using a simple drag-and-drop interface that helps you customize pre-built templates to create an app that suits your requirements. From restaurants and stores to dating apps and taxi booking systems, there are templates available for all kinds of business ventures.

Unlike many of the other app builders mentioned above, Appy Pie has more limited options. Since it aims to provide startups with an easy platform, there are fewer customizable features, meaning if you want to bring a precise vision to life, it may not be the platform for you.

Appy Pie
Photo from appypie.com

Why now is the time to make your idea a reality

If you have been sitting on an idea for a potentially great new business venture, don’t let the opportunity pass you by.

Creating an app is the first big step when it comes to launching your new business. Having the opportunity to build a fully functioning app in as little as a few days and at a fraction of the cost means you can make your mark in a competitive landscape and start to build your online presence.

By picking the best no-code app builder for the nature of your business, you will have access to all the tools and templates you need to get started and kick off your side hustle.

Photo by Prostock-studio/Shutterstock

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Google Searches for ‘AI-Proof Jobs’ Skyrocket https://www.success.com/ai-proof-jobs-google-search-data/ https://www.success.com/ai-proof-jobs-google-search-data/#respond Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91398 Google searches for “AI-proof jobs” hit record highs as workers look for careers safe from automation. See which roles are likely to endure.

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If you’ve recently Googled “AI-proof jobs,” you’re not alone. New data shows that online searches for careers safe from artificial intelligence have surged across the U.S. over the past month. The trend, highlighted this week by Flywheel Studio, shows how workers are gravitating toward jobs they trust won’t be swallowed by automation.

Automation anxiety: Why workers are questioning the future of their jobs

Nearly everyone feels at least a little uneasy about artificial intelligence. While the technology is helping millions of people become more productive, work faster and reclaim valuable time, those same advantages have sparked a wave of other concerns. The initial “all in” enthusiasm around AI is giving way to caution, as more workers question what widespread automation might mean for their own careers moving forward.

AI’s potential to reshape the workforce is profound. Even if it doesn’t eliminate entire industries, it’s certain to transform them—redefining roles, shifting skill requirements and altering how companies operate. For many, the question is no longer if AI will change their work but how soon and by how much.

Global workforce faces disruption with 92 million jobs at risk from AI by 2030

The data gives a glimpse of what’s ahead. The World Economic Forum has predicted that, by 2030, 92 million jobs may be displaced worldwide due to automation and AI advances. And the warning signs are already visible: 41% of employers say they anticipate workforce cuts over the next five years directly tied to AI integration—a share that’s only expected to grow as more organizations seek cost-saving, streamlined alternatives. 

Just this week, in a recent interview, the chair of the Federal Reserve, Jerome Powell, warned that job creation is slowing to worrisome levels, and opportunities for the unemployed are drying up in the AI age. Powell says the AI jobs apocalypse should not be ignored. Elon Musk, one of the original minds behind OpenAI and now leading Grok and X, has also argued that AI’s rise will eventually make traditional jobs obsolete, leaving people to work only for personal fulfillment rather than necessity.

Musk stands with many tech leaders who argue that models like universal basic income (UBI) will eventually be unavoidable. In their view, as AI systems outperform humans in most industries, UBI could become the foundation of a new economic model—one that decouples survival from employment and redefines value around creativity, learning and community rather than labor. 

Flywheel Studio founder Erik Goins: AI will reward those who use it

Erik Goins, founder of Flywheel Studio, says the first wave of AI disruption won’t necessarily target people in the “wrong” jobs—it will hit those who aren’t using AI at all. “Any job can be automated or optimized to some degree,” he explained, “but the professionals who learn to use AI as a productivity multiplier will remain the most valuable and competitive.”

Goins added that for most organizations, the issue isn’t simply whether AI can perform a job but whether someone else using AI can do it better. “If your peers are using AI to move faster, deliver stronger results, and manage more complex work, they’ll consistently outperform you,” he said. “Companies won’t have to replace you with AI—they’ll just reward the people who are already using it effectively.”

Upskilling for the future: Mastering AI tools and technologies

Professionals are exploring a variety of strategies to stay current with AI technologies, learning how to leverage the smart machines that are increasingly shaping our new world. Many are pursuing online courses, webinars and certifications to understand AI tools and their practical applications. From mastering the basics of machine learning to learning how to integrate AI into decision-making processes, workers are building skill sets that extend beyond their traditional roles.

Self-directed experimentation has become common. Employees are exploring AI platforms on their own, testing software that automates routine tasks, analyzes data or generates creative outputs. Engaging with AI tools allows workers to optimize workflows and make strategic decisions that position them for long-term success. 

Learning together and sharing knowledge has become just as important as mastering the tools themselves. By joining online forums, discussion groups and professional communities, workers are swapping insights, troubleshooting challenges and discovering new ways to bring AI into their daily routines. In a world where technology evolves faster than any single individual can keep pace, it’s the collective curiosity and culture of innovation that will determine who thrives.

Photo by SeventyFour/Shutterstock

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From the Editor: Amplifying Voices, Creating Impact https://www.success.com/amplifying-voices-success-digital-impact/ https://www.success.com/amplifying-voices-success-digital-impact/#respond Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:23:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91199 Discover how SUCCESS Digital inspires leaders to give back, amplify others’ voices and create an impact through purpose-driven storytelling.

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my 30-year career in the magazine business, it’s that true success isn’t only measured by what we achieve but also by how we lift others along the way.

That’s why I’m so excited to share this issue of SUCCESS® Digital Edition.

This edition is designed to give business owners the insights and tools they need to make an impact: from starting a nonprofit, to giving back in meaningful ways and aligning with causes that reflect their values. Whether you’re just beginning your philanthropic journey or looking to expand how you contribute, this issue is filled with strategies and stories that will inspire action.

Our cover star, Rory Vaden, is a shining example of this mindset. Known worldwide as a bestselling author and thought leader, Rory is also deeply committed to serving others. His dedication to multiplying time and influence goes beyond business—he channels it into giving back and creating a ripple effect of generosity. Rory’s journey reminds us that when we align our talents with a cause greater than ourselves, we magnify not only our impact but also our sense of purpose. Turn to page 18 for his story.

As for me, giving back has always been at the heart of what I do—literally and figuratively. Throughout my time in media and through my own storytelling platform, RedLilyLife.com, I’ve been passionate about amplifying people’s voices. My passion is and always will be helping others tell their stories for the greater good—to help heal themselves during times of transformation and to reach the audiences who need to hear them most. As someone who also gives back through avid mentorship programs, I have come to understand how powerful it is when business leaders lead with purpose. My mission is to shine a spotlight on meaningful stories and inspire individuals and organizations to create lasting change.

If you’re a professional in your industry or an entrepreneur, then you know it’s easy to focus solely on growth metrics and bottom lines. But giving back doesn’t take away from success. In fact, it enhances it. Leading with purpose builds trust, strengthens communities and leaves a legacy that lives far beyond us.

So, as you read through this issue, I encourage you to ask yourself one question: How can my success help amplify someone else’s story, opportunity or life? The answer, I believe, is where your true legacy begins.

With gratitude,

Kerrie Lee Brown

Editor-in-Chief

SUCCESS® Enterprises

Photo by ©Chermetra Keys. Enjoy free access to read the SUCCESS® Digital Edition in its entirety at SUCCESS® Labs.

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Motivated to Give: Rory Vaden’s Guide to Philanthropy https://www.success.com/motivated-to-give-rory-vaden-philanthropy/ https://www.success.com/motivated-to-give-rory-vaden-philanthropy/#respond Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:22:00 +0000 https://www.success.com/?p=91208 Learn how Rory Vaden applies psychology to inspire giving, choose causes that matter and turn small acts of generosity into real change.

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Billions of dollars of research go into the psychology behind spending. Why do we buy the products and services we do? What actually draws us to a brand? Those same principles of the psychology of influence apply not only to business marketing but also to philanthropy.

The same drive we have to purchase that new pair of shoes or invest in a course from our favorite influencer can be channeled to motivate people to donate to charities making a difference and to dig into local and global issues to improve the circumstances around us.

Rory Vaden, New York Times bestselling author and co-founder of Brand Builders Group with his wife, AJ, spends his days advising individuals how to leverage these principles to become Wealthy and Well-Known, also the title of the couple’s new book rising up the charts. This summer, Vaden pulled back the curtain to reveal the secrets of building influence and income for SUCCESS® readers.

Now, he’s pivoting to teach us how to use it for good—and to motivate ourselves and others to get involved in the causes that mean the most to us.

“You never hit the peak of service,” he says. “You never reach the culmination…. I think it’s important for all nonprofits to realize that while it’s always inspiring to serve the many, their work is still worth it even if it serves just one person.”

Choosing a cause

The potential causes to support are endless, and every day there’s more work to be done. Kids are starving across the globe. Entire war-torn regions are suffering. People still can’t access clean water. In his first book, Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success, Vaden says, “Success is never owned. It is rented, and the rent is due every day. No matter how much money we all give to charity, until every person, until every person on this planet is fed, and every orphan has a family, and every widow is taken care of and every disease is cured, there’s more work to be done,” Vaden says.

According to him, everyone should be motivated to give and help because he calls philanthropy the most “mature form” of motivation. While competition, ambition and recognition are great and motivate many people, he says, ultimately they are unfulfilling without a mission.

Choosing a cause is simple, he says, “Solve the problem that breaks your heart…. We believe that whatever breaks your heart breaks your heart for a reason.” He explains that people are “hardwired” to care more about some causes than others. With that in mind, take note of what grabs your attention, recognize the signal to care and do something about it, he says.

Start small

So, what breaks the Vadens’ hearts? Child trafficking is often top of mind for the couple. “[It] just destroys us… we feel like we have to do something about that,” he says. But just as Vaden can’t end all child trafficking, people who care about important causes sometimes feel they can’t give enough to make a real difference.

Vaden says the Dollar Club, through Cross Point Church in Nashville, is a cause directly combating that thought process though, and is one he and AJ love supporting. The idea is simple, yet life-changing for recipients. Once a month, everyone is asked to donate one single dollar, and all of that money is pooled together to fill one very specific need in the community. “Dollar Club is crushing it and making a huge difference!” For example, they provided a family with $10,000 for medical bills and another family with a much-needed car, all with $1 donations at the root of fundraising.

Get an entire team behind a mission

Does your company retreat start with a service project? Gathering your team of employees around a cause, such as simply giving a dollar to a specific mission, can be an easy lift that helps engage employees and motivate them to get more involved in philanthropy as individuals and as a group. Rory says you can often find AJ leading service projects with their team such as stuffing bags for the homeless and giving them out.

“[Going] as a team into… a rougher neighborhood, [everyone] is like ‘whoa,’ and it helps create gratitude, teamwork and then contribution to give back,” he says.

You can also help automate giving as a part of company culture, he shares, such as using direct withdrawal from paychecks to specific causes and matching employee giving.

Use fundamental brand building principles

Captivating storytelling. Immediacy. These are just a few of the principles of branding and marketing that directly apply to philanthropy and should be prioritized by those trying to promote and advance different causes, Vaden says.

For example, Dollar Club does tear-jerking interviews with those affected, so people who donate see the direct impact, and they share those videos as quickly as possible, for immediacy.

“Immediacy is powerful… [as is] emotion,” he says. “Tell the story of one person. Saying we donated $100,000 to the Red Cross is far less compelling than telling the story of one family who lost their home, tell us who they are and what happened.”

He recommends motivating others by telling those “granular” stories, focusing on localized impact or how a single life was changed. “That’s how you move the masses,” he says.

Give without fear

Vaden paints a common picture of someone wanting to give to a homeless person but hesitating because of what the recipient might do with it—“[they say] I’m afraid he’s just going to buy booze with it.” This is where his faith comes in. “At least as a Christian, I feel like we’re not called to assess people’s motives. We’re called to give,” he says.

Another common concern is giving when you aren’t sure you have enough. Yet, he says even if you aren’t religious, just from an “altruistic” side, helping others in need is just “financial intelligence.”

“View money as a tool and less of a source of safety, identity and self-worth,” he says, sharing that when people are too attached to it, and too afraid of losing it, they can’t “let go” and invest in other causes. Practicing emotionally detaching from it helps you develop a stronger relationship, ultimately becoming more productive and helpful with your money, he says. “When you give money, I very much believe it is one of the most important catalysts to you attracting and making more money. It’s a paradox.”

Finally, some people worry they won’t be able to give enough to have a real impact. “Do for one what you wish you could do for everybody,” Vaden says. “The roadblock is—there’s so much need… Why should I donate $5? What is my $5 going to do? But give your $5 to one person on the street…. If we all do that, it adds up.”

Vaden points to theories like Darren Hardy’s The Compound Effect, The Slight Edge theory and the power of compound interest as support.

“If it makes a difference for one person, it’s worth it,” he says.

So, even if it’s that single dollar to the Dollar Club or a service project as a work team, giving without fear of what will happen next is a place to start, Vaden shares. “Your highest self is when you’re being your highest value to others.” 

Photo by ©Nick Onken. Enjoy free access to read the SUCCESS® Digital Edition in its entirety at SUCCESS® Labs.

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