Donald Trump � PAGE �1�
Donald Trump
University of Phoenix
PSY 250
Lisa Collins
May 4, 2006�
Donald Trump
Success is defined by the accomplishments people make in their lives. These accomplishments are underscored by their abilities to lead and inspire others. Many theorists have pondered what characteristics and traits lead people to have such a passionate drive towards success. Donald Trump is one of these triumphant individuals, who despite adversity have accomplished unrenowned achievements. In order to understand what has made Donald successful, his character traits must be analyzed and compared to acknowledged theory. Donald Trump is a true American success story and his approach to business, along with his personality, must be closely explored.
Donald Trump was born in New York City on June 14, 1946, to Fred and Mary Trump and is the fourth of five children. Fred Trump was a self-made successful real estate developer, who became a millionaire by the time Donald was born.
He built modest homes and apartment buildings and liked to stay out of the spotlight. He was a man of strong conviction and self-confidence and instilled in his children the importance of believing in themselves, being optimistic and striving for success (Slater, 2005). The Trumps lived well but simply and were not flamboyant in their spending. Donald's parents were frugal in the sense that they knew it was not easy to make money and that money should be treated with respect (Trump). Fred was strict with his children but a devoted husband and father. Mary was a traditional housewife but had a flair for the dramatic and was enchanted by royalty and glamour (O'Brien, 2005). She had a great sense for showiness, loved to organize family parties and events, and was always the star of the show.
Donald has said that,