Have you ever wondered why some folks seem to get the best slice of life's cake? It's not about luck. No, it's about the habits they form and the attitude they carry.
And the best bit? These habits aren't a guarded secret.
Let's dive into 11 behaviors that consistently successful people display because who knows, they might be the final pieces of the puzzle for your desired success.
1. Setting Clear Goals
Successful people know where they're heading. They don't wander through life aimlessly. Instead, they set clear, achievable goals for themselves.
But it's not just about setting goals – it's about determining the right goals for you. I prescribe the SMARTER goal-setting method: Specific, Measurable, Aligned, Relevant, Time-bound, Enthusiasm, and Reward. It gives them a clear direction and a roadmap to follow.
By doing this, they always know what they're working towards, and every decision they make is a step towards achieving these goals. Specificity helps them to stay focused and motivated even when things get tough.
2. Embracing Failure
It might sound strange, but successful people don't shy away from failure. They embrace it.
Rather than seeing failure as the end of the road, they view it as a learning opportunity. They understand that mistakes are inevitable and that each brings them closer to success. Failure is just a part of the process; it's not a dead end but a stepping stone on the path to success.
When they fail, they don't get discouraged. Instead, they analyze what went wrong.
What I do and what I have my clients do is the KWINK (Knowing What I Now Know) exercise. There are three questions you need to ask yourself to help assess the situation:
- What to stop,
- What to continue, and
- What to start.
Think about the traffic lights: Red, yellow, and green. We use that as a reminder of the process. The answers to these three questions provide an objective analysis of the event; it aids in the course correction process and getting feedback along the way toward your goals.
Embrace the thought that every failure is a chance to improve, so don't be afraid to fail – embrace it!
3. Learning Continuously
High achievers are continuously learning. They're always looking for opportunities to grow and improve.
They read books, attend seminars, take courses, and seek out mentors. They understand that knowledge is power. They are dedicated to the principle of CANEI, Constant And Never-Ending Improvements.
Let me share a personal example. A few years ago, I was struggling with my self-image. COVID-19 impacted all of us in some way, and I wasn't immune to its effect on my mental health. I set a goal to improve my efficacy and grow my business.
In talking with my coach, she introduced me to the work of Positive Intelligence, which changed my trajectory. It empowered me to bounce back quicker than I had been able to before. I am now a P.Q. Coach, which has contributed to my personal and professional growth, and currently, I am working with my clients to learn how to Stop Under-Living and grow into their potential with an ease and flow approach. (I give you more details on Stop Under-Living below.)
If you want to be successful, embrace lifelong learning. There's always something new to learn and ways to improve yourself!
4. Prioritizing Health
High achievers understand the importance of good health. They know they must care for their bodies to perform at their best.
High achievers make time for exercise, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Here's an interesting fact: Science shows us that even as little as 10 minutes of exercise a week can yield significant health benefits and increase longevity.
You don't have to be a gym enthusiast or a marathon runner to experience the advantages of physical activity.
5. Valuing Relationships
No person is an island. Successful people understand the importance of relationships – whether personal or professional.
High achievers nurture these connections, investing time and energy into building strong, positive bonds with the people around them.
Here's something to think about. At the end of our lives, we won't remember the money we made or the possessions we accumulated. What we will remember are the relationships we fostered and the lives we touched.
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou
Consider the power of a heartfelt conversation, a kind word, or a sincere compliment. These are the moments that make life rich and rewarding.
It's these connections that not only contribute to our success but also make our success meaningful. So, cherish your relationships because they, indeed, are priceless!
6. Practicing Gratitude
Successful people don't take their blessings for granted. They appreciate what they have and express gratitude regularly.
It's not always about what's next for them but also about appreciating what's already in their lives.
Let me share with you a little practice I've developed. Using a Reflective Thinking Journal, I write down:
- What I'm grateful for,
- What I Feel Like Sharing (WIFLS), and
- What I am looking forward to now.
This reflection has made me more aware of the good things in my life, big or small, and has genuinely boosted my happiness.
Gratitude can shift your focus from what your life lacks to the present abundance. Start counting your blessings – it can make a world of difference! It has increased my self-image and self-efficacy.
7. Not Being Afraid to Say No
Here's a raw truth and myth-buster: High achievers don't say yes to everything. They know their time and energy are precious, and they're not afraid to say no when needed.
High achievers don't overcommit, and they don't let people take advantage of them. Instead, they guard their time fiercely because they understand that each "yes" means saying "no" to something else.
Saying no can be challenging, and it can feel uncomfortable. But it's necessary. Setting boundaries and prioritizing what truly matters to you are the things to note.
8. Taking Risks
Successful leaders are not afraid to take risks. They know that always playing it safe doesn't lead to growth or progress.
These individuals achieve great things by stepping out of their comfort zones and taking calculated risks.
Did you know that taking risks can make you feel happier, more alive, and more satisfied with life? I'm not advocating throwing caution to the wind but instead being open to opportunities even when they seem a little scary.
9. Staying Focused
Successful people know how to keep their eyes on the prize. They stay laser-focused on their goals and the steps required to achieve them.
For me, maintaining focus has been challenging. With so many distractions around, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But over time, I've learned the value of focus. I've seen how it can turn efforts into results and dreams into realities.
Staying focused is prioritizing your time and energy on what truly matters. It is easier to focus and prioritize when you know your Major Definite Purpose (MDP).
10. Not Relying on External Validation
Here's the hard truth: High achievers don't let others dictate their worth. They don't fish for compliments or seek approval.
Sure, it's nice to be recognized and appreciated, but high achievers do not rely on others to feel accomplished. They understand that success is a personal journey, and they only need validation from themselves. They set their own standards, measure their progress against their own yardstick, and take pride in their achievements, big or small.
11. Maintaining a Positive Mindset
Life isn't always sunshine and rainbows. There will be storms and dark days. High achievers and successful people understand that their mindset and mental fitness can make all the difference.
They choose to stay positive even during challenging times. They view obstacles as opportunities and see problems as potential learning experiences.
A positive mindset isn't about ignoring life's difficulties. It's handling those difficulties constructively and choosing to see that the glass is refillable, not that the glass is half full or half empty.
Life will throw curveballs at you; that's a given. But it's not what happens to you that matters most – it's how you respond to it.
Stop Under-Living
If you want to Stop Under-Living and grow into your potential with an ease and flow approach start with completing your complimentary Saboteur Assessment.
Stop Under-Living is a phrase or concept that encourages individuals to stop merely existing and start living their lives to the fullest.
It means not settling for a life that lacks passion, purpose, and joy, but rather taking intentional steps to create a life that is meaningful and satisfying.
It is about embracing opportunities, pursuing personal growth and development, and making choices that align with one's values and desires.
-courtesy Coach Phil
