The Formula = Success

“Performance is about you but success is about us.”

In my interview with Albert-Laszlo, I discuss his newest book – The Formula. A book that finally unveils the groundbreaking discoveries of their pioneering study, not only highlighting the scientific and mathematic principles that underpin success. In this episode, we begin by defining success and speak about some of the laws that uncover the link between performance and success.

Hard work, accomplishment, being the man with the idea does not equal success. Talent combined with a strong work ethic is not the only key to getting ahead. Albert reveals, with the science of networks, how the community has a much stronger influence what performance equates to success. Interesting and insightful with some practical value to take away. Certainly enough to spark anyone’s interest to read his book.

Please enjoy and feel free to leave any comments and questions below.

Guest Bio

Albert-László Barabási is the Robert Gray Dodge Professor of Network Science and a Distinguished University Professor at Northeastern University, where he directs the Center for Complex Network Research, and holds appointments in the Departments of Physics and College of Computer and Information Science, as well as in the Department of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women Hospital in the Channing Division of Network Science, and is a member of the Center for Cancer Systems Biology at Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

A Hungarian born native of Transylvania, Romania, he received his Masters in Theoretical Physics at the Eötvös University in Budapest, Hungary and was awarded a PhD three years later at Boston University.

Topics of discussion 

• Defining Success – Performance and success explained.
• The laws of success.
• How past success + fitness = future success.
• How experts struggle to select the best performance.
• The relationship between persistence and success.
• The relationship between productivity, creativity and having a major breakthrough.

Quick round questions

Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success? 

Being an early rise. Most importantly scheduling my time purposefully.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

Performance matters and the measurements of performance however it is also important to pay attention to the non-performing aspects of your profession and life.

If I would serve you your last meal what would you request?

Comfort food. A meal cooked by my mother or wife.

If you could pick one book to pass down to your children or future generations what book would it be? 

The Formula: The Universal Laws of Success by Albert Laszlo Barabasi

Linked: How Everything Is Connected to Everything Else and What It Means for Business, Science, and Everyday Life by Albert Laszlo Barabasi

Bursts: The Hidden Pattern Behind Everything We Do by Albert Laszlo Barabasi

What quote, phrase or message would you text or tweet to everyone in the world?

“Performance is about you but success is about us.”

Do we all have a Hidden Why, a purpose?

No! You have to develop it.

What do you believe is the underlying motivation behind everything you do? 

It changes! To do good work in my profession and now also to help my students to master their work.

How to connect with Albert-Laszlo

Visit his website here – http://barabasi.com/

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.