JK Rowling's Secret Success Weapon

All she ever wanted to do was write. But few believed in her.

She ended up as a single mom. Collecting social benefits checks--just to get food onto the table. For her and her child.

On a trip from Manchester to London in 1990, her train was delayed. And an idea burst into her imagination. About a boy who didn't know what he was.

She called this kid Harry Potter. And she wrote about his adventures.

12 publishers rejected the book. A small house called Bloomsbury Press eventually agreed to publish it. But even then, the author was told "you'll never make any money on children's books."

Yet, the book caught fire. Touched the hearts of millions. Inspired a new generation to read.

Of course, the woman is JK Rowling.

And she's sold 400,000,000 books. And built a fortune of $800,000,000.

From an idea. About a young wizard. With a brave heart.

Her secret "weapon"?...

... JK Rowling DIDN'T LISTEN TO THE DOUBTS OF HER CRITICS.

"For some to love you, some must loathe you," she brilliantly observed.

And she's right. All visionaries are initially ridiculed before they are revered.

All enormously successful people first meet with rejection, resistance and yes, sometimes outright hatred. Criticism truly is the price of greatness. And you really need to be so invested in your dream + abilities + passion that ABSOLUTELY NOTHING will knock you off your game.

So be strong. Go for world-class. And when you get knocked down, dust yourself off, and stay true to your loftiest visions. In the end, you'll be grateful you did.