Success Spiral
A positive feedback loop where achievements build confidence and resources for further achievements.
Also known as: Upward spiral, Success momentum
Category: Concepts
Tags: successes, momentum, positive-feedback, compound-effect, confidence
Explanation
A success spiral is a positive feedback loop where success breeds more success. Initial achievements provide: increased confidence, new skills, expanded networks, more resources, and improved reputation - all of which increase probability of future success. The spiral can start small (a small win builds confidence for a slightly bigger challenge) and compound over time. Success spirals explain why early advantages can compound dramatically (the Matthew effect) and why momentum is so powerful. To initiate a success spiral: start with achievable wins, celebrate progress, build on strengths, and maintain momentum through consistent effort. The opposite - a failure spiral - can work similarly, where setbacks reduce confidence and resources. For knowledge workers, deliberately creating success spirals through small wins is a strategic approach to building capability and confidence for larger achievements.
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