Psychological Foundations of Success: A Harvard-Trained Scientist Separates the Science of Success from Self-Help Snake Oil

In Psychological Foundations of Success, Stephen J. Kraus synthesizes decades of research on success and well-being, creating one of the most sophisticated and entertaining self-improvement books ever written. Along the way, he de-bunks self-help snake oil, unmasks self-improvement urban legends, and explores the "greatest hits" of psychology's most fascinating research. The result is a scientifically valid five step system for personal achievement that anyone can use.

1. Vision: The science of clarifying what you really want from life
2. Strategy: The science of turning lofty ambitions into consistent actions
3. Belief: The science of minimizing FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt)
4. Persistence: The science of drive and determination
5. Learning: The science of making course corrections in life

At each step, the book goes far beyond the common knowledge, cliches and anecdotes found in many self-help books. It explores the uncommon knowledge revealed by cutting edge research on the psychology of success, and provides proven tools for achieving more in each area.

Stephen J. Kraus is an author, speaker, and success scientist. In his writings and speeches, he teaches the science of success, synthesizes decades of research on personal achievement, and explores the "greatest hits" of psychology’s most fascinating research. At the same time, he de-bunks self-help snake oil and unmasks self-improvement urban legends. This unique combination – a rigorous scientist who also empowers people with psychological tools for success – has even led some to call him a combination of Tony Robbins and Mr. Spock.

Steve is author of Psychological Foundations of Success: A Harvard-Trained Scientist Separates the Science of Success from Self-Help Snake Oil. His articles have appeared in BrandWeek, AdWeek, the San Francisco Chronicle, Contemporary Psychology and a variety of scientific psychology journals. His article on the relationship between attitudes and behavior is one of the most widely referenced works on the topic in the psychological literature, and is cited in major textbooks. He has been interviewed on CNN/fn, Fox News Channel, and dozens of radio stations. He has also been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, Investor’s Business Daily, the Chicago Tribune, the Philadelphia Daily News, Parents magazine, and other national publications.

He is Founder and President of Next Level Sciences Inc., a peak performance consultancy that helps individuals and organizations take their performance to the next level with innovative, science-based tools for success. He has consulted for many Fortune 500 corporations, using his insights into human behavior to help companies grow their businesses, build better relationships with customers, and ensure peak performance among their employees. He has also aided the U. S. armed forces in their efforts to improve the recruiting, retention and performance of America’s military personnel.

Steve is a featured speaker at conferences across the country, where he discusses his insights into human behavior and their implications for fields as diverse as technology, financial services, retail sales, packaged goods, and human resources. He has also spoken at numerous scientific conferences, including those held by the American Psychological Association and the Society of Consumer Psychology.

Steve received his Ph.D. in social psychology from Harvard University at age 25, and twice won Harvard's award for excellence in teaching. Steve taught psychology at the University of Florida, where he was a campus favorite thanks to his teaching style of busting popular myths, illustrating psychological principles with vivid demonstrations, and translating scientific research findings into practical learning.