Seven Common Traits of Successful People


By Rebecca McClain

The thoughts and behavior patterns of highly successful people are different from the average person. Some people only enjoy momentary success. What I find fascinating are the people who seem to do well in many areas of life over and over throughout a lifetime.

Successful people practice being successful-it's intentional. Let's examine seven common traits of highly successful people:

They work hard. Successful people often get up early and work late. They understand that success requires hard work and are willing to do it. They don't watch the clock-their focus is on results. Rather than complaining about difficult problems, they focus on finding solutions.

They invest in themselves. Successful people don't reach a certain level and rest of their laurels. They consistently invest in their growth and development. They work on their personality, their leadership skills, management skills, and every other detail of life. They have a voracious hunger for knowledge. They read, research, attend seminars and classes, hire coaches and mentors to stay sharp and give themselves an edge.

They know what they want. Successful people have a clear vision for know what they want and why they want it, in both their personal and professional lives. They focus their time and energy on fulfilling their goals. Although they can't predict with certainly what the final outcome is going to be, they have a vision for each step along their journey. Having a clear idea about what you want to do, to be, or to accomplish comes at a different time for each of us.

They are passionate about what they do. If you do not enjoy what you do, then you will not be successful at it. Successful people really enjoy their life and work. It is fascinating to watch people who enjoy what they do because you get to witness someone having fun. They often seem downright giddy! When you're passionate about what you do, it's not drudgery-it's fun. When you have fun in what you do, you will be good at it.

They network. Networking isn't about kissing up to people in authority or hanging out with important people. It is about building relationships at all levels inside and outside of your work environment. Networking gives you a pool of resources from which to draw. Successful people have discovered the power of networking. They are friendly and outgoing, which endears them to other people. It's not the quantity of people you know, it's the quality that counts. Successful people make primary connections with other like-minded, successful people.

They take educated risks. Educated risks are when you've done your homework and properly assessed the situation. In order to move from where you are now, you need to be willing to take risks. The risks will include the possibility of rejection and failure, but nothing ventured is nothing gained. Successful people are not afraid to experiment. They understand that lack of curiosity breeds mediocrity. They don't bite off more than they can chew-they consistently take small steps toward their goal.

They get results. Successful people don't just think about what they want, they act on their dreams. They are goal oriented-the side affects of which is that they frequently achieve their visions. They have taken the responsibility of tapping into their potential and unleashed it to get the results they want and transform their lives.

These combined traits give successful people a huge advantage. If you wish to experience greater success in your personal and professional life, then take these highly effectively habits and begin applying them to your life now.

Rebecca McClain is founder of Life Treasures LLC, a life enrichment company. As an entrepreneur, author, speaker and life coach, she is recognized as an expert in personal and professional success.


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