How I became a millionaire at 24 in 10 steps

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When I was 21 years old, I believed in an idea that would change the world.

It was an idea that seemed too far-fetched, but still seemed possible if I was willing to work steadily toward it. This particular idea was simply about the teachings that were omitted from our educational system.

After reading as many books as I could find, I learned quickly that there were many subjects that schools didn't teach. They included the following subjects: time-management, earning money, making decisions, setting goals, building and maintaining relationships, etc.

Because I devoted myself to this simple idea, it made me a millionaire by age 24. In my personal life, I've found that there were 10 strange secrets about millionaires. Once you see these common trends, you'll be able to leverage all your current opportunities.

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Become a student.

In every spare moment I had, I studied these subjects voraciously, seeking precepts that aligned with the truth. When I commuted to work, gym, and school, I would listen to audio programs, absorbing as many ideas as I could about these subjects. I also attended 20 seminars in my first year.

My mind started to change as I looked at myself and those around me. I realized that I wasn't satisfied with my position, but how would I change it? Even though I was in college, I wasn't sure if school was the answer, especially since I wanted to start my own business.

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Decide to do something.

I had to make a decision. Soon after, I quit my MBA program and began giving hundreds of free speeches. I did whatever I could to get the word out. In my first two years, I spoke at more than 500 live events, most of which were unpaid engagements.

Even as I worked 18 hour days for 7 days a week, I was sick to my stomach about how I would be paid. At the time, I lived off of credit cards and peddled my book in speeches. In some instances, I sold my book door-to-door. I also became a master salesman when I sold everything in my house!

Related: The only 5 ways you can become rich

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Do whatever it takes.

I thought success was for older people. Since I was in my early 20s, I wasn't sure if it could happen. The majority of audience members were twice or three-times my age. I thought they knew much more than me, but I still showed up. Most of the time, I drove over two or three hours to get to my speeches, even dealing with snow or torrential rainfalls.

One time when I visited New York City, I gave a speech to one old man. When I came out of the speech, I found out that my car had been towed, which cost me $300. What's more, I was deeply saddened to find a $500 parking infraction on my wiper blade for making in an illegal spot. Essentially, I waited all day and paid $800 to give a speech to this one old man.

See the rest of the story at Business Insider