Some people seem to succeed in everything they do, while others never quite make it. What really sets them apart? Here are nine traits that distinguish truly successful people. Follow in the footsteps of the masters and be inspired to adopt new, better life habits.

 

#1 -They Never Stop Learning

Think you're done after graduation? Think again. Your knowledge is up-to-date today, but tomorrow someone might discover a completely new or smarter way to do what you do. Want to be successful in a certain field? Do as successful people do – stay curious and learn something new every day. Read books on the subject, take a course, research, find a mentor, attend lectures, talk to people who know more than you. And embracing the idea that you can change will help you make better choices and reach your full potential. People whose goals are focused on improvement, rather than just being good, handle challenges well and value the journey as much as the destination.

#2 - They Set Specific Goals in Life

When setting a goal, be specific. For example, "Losing 5 pounds" is better than "losing some weight." Knowing what you want to achieve keeps you motivated. Also, specify the actions needed. Instead of vaguely promising to "eat less" or "sleep more," say, "I'll be in bed by 10 pm on weeknights." And do you tend to procrastinate on things you should tackle? Successful people do the opposite. They plan their days and complete everything they set out to do without delay. They wake up with a purpose and a plan and don't let themselves get distracted. This becomes much easier when you genuinely love what you do. So find a goal that inspires you, make a plan, and take a step towards that goal every day.

#3 - Successful People Embrace Challenges

Do problems or obstacles make you nervous? Do as successful people do; view problems as exciting challenges instead of threats that can break you. See the opportunities for new, perhaps better solutions than you initially thought. With each problem you solve, you grow and increase your ability to tackle the next one confidently. When you are setting a goal, by all means, engage in lots of positive thinking about how likely you are to achieve it.

But be a realistic optimist! Believing in your ability to succeed is very helpful for creating and sustaining your motivation. However, it's crucial not to underestimate how difficult it will be to reach your goal. Most goals worth achieving require time, planning, effort, and persistence. Studies show that thinking things will come to you easily and effortlessly leaves you unprepared for the journey ahead and significantly increases the odds of failure.

This blog post is inspired by the book "Nine Things Successful People Do Differently."  by Heidi Grant Halvorson.

#4 - They Remain Humble

Truly successful people don't take their achievements for granted. They never forget how it all started or the hard work they've put in along the way. They share their results with pride, joy, and confidence but never boast about their accomplishments. So be careful not to seek respect from others through vanity. Did you achieve your goal? Congratulations! Now, convey expertise and confidence through who you are and what you do, rather than bragging about your achievements to others.

#5 - They Help Others

Successful people don't keep their knowledge or contacts to themselves. Their motto is: "the more you have, the more you can give to others," believing that the more people succeed, the better the world becomes. Truly successful people are happy to help the less fortunate and are driven not by greed, but by goals that benefit more than just themselves.

#6 - They Control Their Thoughts and Emotions

Successful people have the ability to maintain their optimism throughout life. Like most, they sometimes face sorrow and disappointments, but they don't dwell on or stay stuck in negative events. Well aware of the power of positive thoughts and habits, they focus instead on living in the present and looking forward. What do you need to let go of or forgive to move forward in your own life?

#7 - They Ensure Balance in Life

Family and good relationships are more important than anything else for successful people. It's where they draw strength and new motivation. Successful people also know that balance between work and personal life is essential for genuine happiness. Hard work can be good and commendable, but without time for recovery, good relationships, and healthy recreation, you lose strength in the long run, which ultimately affects your work as well.

#8 - Successful People Avoid Negative Energy

Do you have friends who cheer you on or envy you? Successful people know they can't afford negativity that drains their energy and therefore carefully choose who they spend time with. People who don't support them, who are jealous, or try to bring them down simply don't have a place in their circle. Do you need to take stock of your friends too? Who do you allow to influence you? Whose "good advice," envy, or admonitions could you do without in your quest for success? Your time and energy are precious, so choose carefully where and with whom you invest them.

#9 - They Have Grit!

Grit is the determination to pursue long-term goals and persist through challenges. Research shows that individuals with grit tend to achieve higher levels of education and earn better college GPAs. Grit is a key factor in predicting which individuals will persevere through their first challenging year in a rigorous training program and which participants will advance in a highly competitive national competition.

The encouraging news is that if you currently lack grit, you can develop it. Often, people who feel they lack grit believe they don't possess the natural abilities that successful individuals have. If this sounds like you, it's important to realize that this belief is incorrect. Success is driven by effort, planning, persistence, and effective strategies. Embracing this understanding will not only help you view yourself and your goals more accurately but also significantly enhance your grit.

 

This blog post is inspired by the book "Nine Things Successful People Do Differently."  by Heidi Grant Halvorson.

 

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