Our Founder

Born in San Mateo, California in 1928 to a German immigrant father and a mother of Scottish descent, Paul J. Meyer possessed an unyielding urge to learn, to excel, and to be innovative in all his endeavors.

Always considered a person with an idea ahead of its time, Meyer became interested in the principles of personal growth, development, and success at an early age. He was particularly interested in the process of goal setting, as this process was in tune with his keen desire for personal achievement. By using goal-setting principles in his chosen career of professional sales, Meyer became a millionaire by the age of 27.

More importantly, however, Meyer held the firm belief that all people, regardless of their gender, personality, social standing, or level of education, could develop the necessary characteristics to achieve and live a lifetime of success. To this end, Meyer founded Success Motivation® Institute, Inc. in 1960, a company dedicated to motivating people to their full potential®.  This company brought into reality Meyer’s long-standing dream of providing practical, effective materials to help people achieve their goals and enjoy greater success.

Since the original company was established, Meyer grew and expanded it, launching Success Motivation® International, Inc. and Leadership Management® International, Inc. These companies and their affiliates are now active throughout the United States and in more than 80 countries throughout the world. The cornerstone products — the written and recorded materials developed by Meyer to teach people how to reach their goals and achieve their desired success — are produced in 24 languages with others in preparation. A unique component of the programs is the Plan of Action Meyer developed for goals achievement. The Plan of Action is a hands-on tool that guides participants in the practical application of the concepts learned in the course material.

Success in his own life and expertise in teaching others meaningful ways to reach their goals earned Meyer recognition as one of the world’s most outstanding authorities in the fields of goal setting, motivation, time management, and personal and professional development.

The legacy of Meyer’s success can be seen through the work of the charitable foundation he and his wife, Jane, established in 1984. The Paul and Jane Meyer Family Foundation supports more than 30 charities and organizations in Central Texas, the United States, and throughout the world.