Over the years, I have learned that success isn’t a single destination—it is a series of choices, habits, and relationships that shape the journey. I have been fortunate to work with incredible teams at Arby’s, Honey Baked Ham, Interface, and now at Georgia State University.
Success, I have discovered, comes from a blend of discipline and joy, strategy, and heart. It is not just about advancing in your career—it is about building a life that feels whole, meaningful, and fun.
Here are 10 guiding principles that have helped me succeed in business and life.
1. Lead with love and purpose
I believe love is a leadership strategy. When you genuinely care about people—whether family, friends, or colleagues—you build trust that lasts. Pairing that with a powerful sense of purpose keeps me grounded in why I do the work. Purpose acts like a compass when the path ahead feels uncertain.
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2. Create and commit to small habits
Small daily rituals like my Full Focus Planner, daily walks, and morning coffee reflection are not glamorous, but they add up. Consistency is the secret sauce of long-term success. Habits compound over time and help me stay centered, even on the busiest days.
3. Build a playlist for your life
I always have a soundtrack. Music energizes me, helps me reset after tough days, and inspires creativity. I encourage everyone to curate their own playlist that lifts them up. Songs have the power to shift our mood and remind us of what is possible.
4. Adopt the giraffe mindset
The giraffe reminds me to rise above the noise, keep my vision high, and stay grounded in my values. At the same time, it symbolizes leading with a big heart. Height, heart, and horizon—that’s what the giraffe mindset is all about.
5. Invest in lifelong learning
I’m naturally curious, and I have found that investing in education—whether through formal degrees, leadership programs, or simply reading and listening—pays compounding dividends. The world is always changing, and staying relevant requires us to be lifelong learners.
6. Prioritize people
At the end of the day, it’s all about people. I’ve learned to never sacrifice relationships for short-term wins. My family, friends, and colleagues are my greatest joy, and the time I spend with them is the most valuable investment I’ll ever make.
7. Balance positivity with resilience
Positivity is my superpower, but resilience is its partner. I try to see the bright side and keep moving forward even when challenges arise. Life and business will throw curveballs, but optimism plus grit is a winning combination.
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8. Give back and build community
Whether through the nonprofit boards I serve on—the American Marketing Association Atlanta chapter, speaking at Brand Innovators—or mentoring students, giving back has enriched my life in ways no paycheck ever could. Service is a two-way street—it creates impact and builds friendships with people who want to do good things in the world.
9. Think like a brand but act like a human
I often say you are your own brand. Stay authentic, stay consistent, and let your values shine through in every interaction. Help others. Practice gratitude. Look for humor and positivity in everyday situations. The best brands—and the best people—are memorable because they’re real.
10. Write your next chapter
My favorite lesson: No matter where you are, you can always begin again. Each day, we have the power to write the next chapter of our lives. Live it up! Have fun. You get to decide how your story unfolds.
Wrapping it all together
Success, to me, is a blend of love, purpose, curiosity, community, and resilience. It’s about showing up consistently, with heart, and never forgetting that the small things we do daily create the extraordinary life we aspire to build. I’ve learned that work and life are not separate—they’re interconnected, and the same values that help us be great leaders also help us be better parents, friends, and partners.
So, whether you are just starting out or reimagining your next chapter, remember this: Success isn’t about chasing someone else’s definition. It is about creating your own path, one filled with meaning, momentum, and joy. And that is a playlist worth playing on repeat.
Jo Ann Herold is vice president of marketing/public relations at Georgia State University