First, you need to determine what career area interests you; then learn all you can about that profession. It is important to enjoy something if you're going to be doing it 75% of the time, right? Once you understand all there is to know about your career choice, find a way to get your foot in the door ? whether it be through interning, volunteering, etc. ? so that you will have many opportunities to interact with others who can help you reach your goal.

Second, make sure that you've got a positive attitude. If you're the kind of person that gets easily discouraged and gives up after one try, then you're going to find it very difficult to achieve much success. Successful people know that it can take many failures before reaching a goal. Also, surround yourself with positive people ? pessimistic naysayers can drain you of energy and prevent you from taking necessary risks.

Always use your common sense when making important decisions. While it is important to take risks to move ahead, don't let that be an excuse to engage in precarious behavior. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of all your options ? including the pros and cons ? before making any big decisions.

Lastly, you must always follow-through with your plans in order to see results. Success will not magically appear without a little (or a lot) of elbow grease and perseverance. You have to be hardworking, with plenty of discipline, to reach any goal of being successful.

Also, seek out people who have become successful in the career that you are interested in ? they may be willing to serve as mentors, or at the very least, as sources of valuable information.

The road to success is bumpy and winding ? many times you will want to turn around and run in the opposite direction ? but the key is to stick with what matters most to you. Identify why you want to be successful and write it down where you can look at it any time you are feeling discouraged. Try to remember: If it's worth having, it's worth the effort!