The No. 1 Question That Changes Everything

Transform Your Challenges into Success: The No. 1 Question That Changes Everything

By Dr. Scott Zarcinas, Founder, 818: Unlocking Your Life

You might have noticed how some people seem to thrive despite facing the same obstacles as everyone else.

The secret isn’t that they have fewer challenges—it’s that they approach them differently.

And it all starts with one powerful question.

The Universal Truth About Challenges

M. Scott Peck’s started his famous book, The Road Less Traveled, with  the words, “Life is difficult.”

This truth, borrowed from Buddha’s teaching that “everybody suffers,” still resonates deeply today. Whether you’re:

  • Juggling career demands with personal life.
  • Struggling with self-doubt and imposter syndrome.
  • Fighting against time constraints.
  • Managing financial pressures.
  • Navigating relationships and family responsibilities.

The challenge isn’t about avoiding these difficulties—it’s about transforming how we respond to them.

The Game-Changing Question

Here’s the revolutionary question successful people ask themselves when facing any challenge:

“What would a successful person in my position do?”

This question isn’t just about imagining—it’s about shifting your entire perspective from reactive to proactive.

Let’s explore how this simple yet powerful question transforms four key areas of life.


Download Your Free SMART Starter Guide


1. Mindset Mastery: Wholistic Perspective

The Question in Action: “How would a successful person ‘see’ this setback?”

Practical Application:

  • Start each morning by writing down three potential challenges and how a successful person would approach them.
  • Create a “Success Response Protocol” for common obstacles (e.g. the glass is both half full and half empty at the same time).
  • Replace “I can’t” with “How would someone successful…”

Personal Reflection: When did changing your perspective transform a challenge? 

2. Time Mastery: Your Most Precious Resource

The Question in Action: “How would a successful person protect and invest their time?”

Practical Application:

  • Block out 2 hours each week for focused goal work—treat it like a VIP meeting.
  • Implement the “successful person’s morning routine”.
  • Use the “time value calculator”: Is this worth my precious time?

Quick Exercise: What’s one time-wasting habit a successful person would eliminate? Write it down now.


The Right Mindset


3. Continuous Growth: The Lifelong Learning Mindset

The Question in Action: “What would a successful person be learning right now?”

Practical Application:

  • Identify three skills a successful person in your field would master.
  • Create a “Success Learning Plan” with monthly targets.
  • Find a mentor who embodies your definition of success.

Challenge: What’s one skill you’re committed to mastering this month?

4. Character Building: The Values Foundation

The Question in Action: “What values would a successful person demonstrate here?”

Practical Application:

  • List the top 5 character traits of successful people in your field.
  • Create daily situations to practice these traits.
  • Start a “Success Values Journal”.

Essential Success Values to Cultivate:

  • Courage and resilience.
  • Integrity and authenticity.
  • Compassion and service.
  • Gratitude and growth mindset.

The Flea Circus

The Real Cost of Not Asking This Question

Consider what you might lose by not adopting this success-oriented mindset:

  • Opportunities for growth and advancement.
  • Valuable relationships and connections.
  • Time spent in reactive rather than proactive mode.
  • Confidence and self-belief.
  • Financial and career opportunities.

Your Success Journey Starts Now

🔍 Reflection Exercise: Take a moment right now to identify one challenge you’re facing. Ask yourself: “What would a successful person do in this situation?” Write down your answer.

Ready to Transform Your Approach to Success?

Every journey begins with a single step. Your step today is asking this powerful question. But why navigate this journey alone?

Want personalised guidance in applying these success principles? Let’s explore how professional coaching can accelerate your journey.

Book your complimentary discovery call to discuss your unique path to success >>


Schedule Your Free Session Now

Let’s discuss how coaching can help you achieve your goals. No pressure, just a conversation about possibilities.

Or Submit Your Inquiry

Fill in the form and one of our coaches will be in touch within 24 hours.

  • Our coaches require your phone number to provide information and confirm your identity.

Dr. Scott Zarcinas | Doctor, Author, SpeakerAbout the Author: Dr. Scott Zarcinas (aka DoctorZed) is an author, doctor, and transformational life coach with over 15 years of experience helping professionals achieve authentic success. Based in Adelaide, South Australia, he specialises in transforming potential into performance through personalised coaching programs.

 


Ask the Right Questions. Take the First Step to Unlock the Life You Want Today!


ABOUT 818: UNLOCKING YOUR LIFE

At 818: Unlocking Your Life, we help proactive people thrive the SMART way. We give you the keys to a happy, healthy and wealthy mindset so you can free your time and live the life you always wanted. 818: Unlocking Your Life gives regular workshops, seminars, presentations, and courses to serve those who want to make a positive difference through positive action.

Unlock Your Best Self—Get Instant Access to Free Online Coaching Sessions