“What makes someone a high achiever? Is it simply dedication and hard work toward your goals? Is it something else? This week, Mark Sanborn shares common traits that he has observed over the years working with countless individuals. High achievers share six traits that define their success. Mark outlines the common characteristics of highly successful people and shares traits that are prevalent among high-achieving individuals.”
Successful People and Their Mindset
In my work with entrepreneurs, athletes, business leaders and other highly successful people, I’ve notice that extraordinary achievers often share common characteristics and traits. While the following list isn’t exhaustive, it highlights some of the key attributes of those who are among the very best at what they do. This is a list worth striving for in your own personal and professional development. Assess yourself to determine where growth opportunities exist.
The Key Six Traits of High Achievers
High achievers often stand out due to specific traits that drive their success. Understanding these traits can help you identify areas for personal growth and development.
1. They Are Masters of Self
The woman or man who becomes excellent and sustains that excellence throughout his or her life is, first and foremost, a master of self. She knows that nobody else can do for her what only she can do for herself. The motivated person takes responsibility for decisions, actions, and motivation. Beyond taking responsibility, the best become failure-proof. That doesn’t mean they don’t make mistakes or miss their goals from time to time. It does mean that they don’t allow setbacks to prevent them from trying again. They often use their setbacks to leap ahead. They learn from their mistakes and adjust their efforts accordingly. They are paragons of perseverance.
2. They Are Curious About Many Things
Extraordinary achievers aren’t just “learned.” The best have learned how to learn. They understand the principles and techniques that enable them to learn whatever is important for their improvement and advancement. They live the motto of the late Cavett Robert, who said the school is never out for the professional. More often than not, the best learn the most important lessons after their formal education has ended. Some of the great achievers never had much formal education. All, however, have enrolled in the university of practical experience. This enables them to learn much more from the same experiences that others have but ignore. The best continue to perpetually expand their knowledge base and skill set.
3. They Add Value to What They Do
Highly successful people either create new value or add value to the important work they do. They compete successfully by offering better ideas, products, and/or services than their competitors. They do more than talk about “value-added”–they deliver on it. The best are artists who take ordinary job responsibilities, products, and services and make them extraordinary. They are real-world alchemists who practice the art and science of value creation.
4. They Build Relationships Rather Than Simply Interacting
High achievers understand that all results are created by and through interactions with others. As a result, they have become psychology students. They understand that strong relationships create loyalty and are the basis of partnerships and teamwork. The best network to develop distribution channels for their talents and work well in partnerships with customers and teams of colleagues. They are also highly influential. They don’t just tell; they sell. Believing that your product, service, or idea is so good that it doesn’t need to be sold is the height of arrogance. They know that their ideas are competing for attention in the marketplace of ideas. They enlist the support and involvement of others through their passionate ability to persuade.
5. They Create Opportunities and Embrace the Change
Resistance to change is the norm. Few initiate change for themselves or their organizations. But the best know the futility of resisting the inevitable and use change to their advantage. But they are not mastered by change. Instead, they are change masters. They make the most of the necessary changes, and they pursue the changes that are profitable. Achievers don’t waste energy trying to put more time into their lives. They know this is impossible. Instead, they demonstrate that you can put more life into your time.
6. They Are “Go-Givers”
Money is important to many of the best, but more often than not, it is a means of keeping score. The best are those who leave a legacy and live by the service ethic. In the process, they find their material rewards are matched or exceeded by the meaning they create in the process. (My friends Bob Burg and John David Mann wrote a great little book entitled The Go-Giver.) The best fulfill a passion for significance. They outlive themselves not by the results they’ve achieved but by the way they’ve affected and touched others. Whether formal leaders, entrepreneurs, or employees, they have a profound impact on others because of the example they set. They inspire through their own efforts.
How High Achievers Inspire Those Around Them
High achievers inspire by setting clear goals and pursuing them with dedication. They lead by example, demonstrating hard work and commitment. Their success story motivates others to reach their own potential. These individuals share their knowledge and skills, helping others grow. They create a supportive environment, encouraging progress and achievement. High achievers value teamwork and nurture strong relationships. Through their actions, they impact and inspire the people around them to strive for excellence.
The Importance of Long-Term Thinking in Organizational Success
Long-term thinking is crucial for organizational success. It involves planning for the future while adapting to present challenges. Leaders who focus on long-term goals build sustainable business models. They invest in innovation and development. This mindset helps navigate economic fluctuations and market changes. Organizations with a long-term vision often outperform their competitors. They not only grow but also thrive in diverse conditions. A clear strategy ensures lasting achievements and stable growth.
FAQs
What sparks the creativity of high achievers?
High achievers are often motivated by curiosity and a desire to learn. They seek knowledge from different experiences and interactions. Their creative spark comes from observing their surroundings and asking questions. They explore new ideas and innovations with an open mind. Collaboration with others also fuels their creativity. They draw inspiration from both successes and failures. High achievers view challenges as opportunities for creative problem-solving.
How do high achievers embrace risks to fuel their success?
High achievers embrace risks by understanding their potential benefits. They assess potential outcomes carefully. Taking calculated risks is essential for growth. Fear of failure does not hold them back. They view setbacks as stepping stones to success. High achievers trust their ability to adapt and learn from mistakes. This mindset fuels their continuous development and innovation.
What unconventional approaches do top performers take?
Top performers often think outside the box and find unique solutions to problems. These individuals prefer efficiency over tradition and focus on what works best. They value creativity and innovation. Their approach challenges the status quo, and they are not afraid to make bold moves. This mindset sets them apart from others. Top performers seek breakthroughs that drive success and often hold senior roles like CEO, senior manager, etc.
How do high achievers turn setbacks into stepping stones?
High achievers view setbacks as learning experiences. They analyze what went wrong and focus on solutions instead of problems. Persistence is their key. They maintain a positive outlook, which helps them grow stronger. They use setbacks as motivation. Each challenge becomes a chance to innovate. Their resilience leads to new successes.
Author of 31 books translated into over 50 languages, including best-sellers "The NEW Art of Managing People" and "The Platinum Rule," Dr. Alessandra helps organizations build stronger relationships with prospects, customers, and co-workers.
When not developing new assessment tools, Tony explores cutting-edge business communication trends. Connect with Dr. Alessandra on LinkedIn to learn how his innovative approaches can boost your team's performance.
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