There’s a vast difference between high achievers and average individuals.
The distinction often lies in the details. High achievers tend to have little habits that may seem insignificant but actually have a significant impact on their success.
These habits, in turn, set them apart from the rest of the crowd, subtly guiding their actions and decisions to align with their goals more effectively.
In this article, we’ll delve into these subtle yet powerful habits.
Let’s dive in.
1) High achievers are early risers
Tim Cook, Michelle Obama, Bob Iger, Richard Branson..what do they have in common? Well, they are all massively successful. Another thing? They are all up and at it before 6 a.m.
When we compare this to the US average wake-up time of 7:30 a.m., we begin to see a trend.
It’s not a coincidence that many successful people are early birds.
They understand the value of starting the day ahead of everyone else. The tranquility of the morning allows for undisturbed time to plan, strategize, and focus on tasks without any interruptions.
This habit gives them a head start on the day, allowing them to tackle their biggest challenges when their energy levels are at their peak.
If you want to start ticking off those big goals, setting that alarm clock a little earlier might be the first step.
2) High achievers practice mindfulness
High achievers are often associated with a fast-paced lifestyle, constantly moving from one task to another. However, one habit that separates them from others is their commitment to mindfulness.
Mindfulness, the practice of focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, is not just a new-age trend. It’s a powerful tool used by many successful individuals.
Studies have shown that mindfulness not only reduces stress but also improves focus and working memory. Moreover, it’s said to reduce emotional reactivity, a crucial trait for effective leadership and decision-making.
Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or just taking a few moments of silence each day, practicing mindfulness allows high achievers to maintain clarity amid chaos. It gives them the ability to respond rather than react to stressful situations, leading to more thoughtful decisions and actions.
3) They set specific goals
Instead of settling for broad, vague goals, top performers define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives. This disciplined approach provides them with a precise roadmap to success.
Goal-setting for them isn’t merely about deciding on desired outcomes; it involves breaking down larger ambitions into smaller, manageable tasks that are organized on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. This strategy turns overwhelming objectives into attainable steps, fostering a sense of progress and motivation as each segment is completed.
Additionally, the hyper-successful among us consistently evaluate and adjust their goals to reflect their current progress and respond to emerging opportunities or challenges. This flexibility ensures continual advancement, even if it requires adjusting strategies or approaches to better meet their ultimate goals.
4) They are continuous learners
Did you know that Bill Gates reads 50 books a year?
If there’s one thing that high achievers have in common, it’s their insatiable curiosity and desire to learn.
They understand that growth and progress come from constant learning. They read books, attend seminars, take courses, and seek mentorship. They’re never content with what they know; they’re always looking for new knowledge and skills to acquire.
This continuous learning is not restricted to their field of work or expertise. High achievers are often polymaths, interested in various disciplines and areas of life.
They know that diverse knowledge not only makes them more interesting but also allows them to make connections that others might miss. This habit of continuous learning keeps their minds sharp and open to new ideas, contributing significantly to their success.
5) They prioritize health and fitness
Fitness is not just about looking good or being able to run a marathon. It’s about maintaining a level of physical health that allows for sustained mental sharpness and energy.
High achievers often have a workout regimen that they stick to, understanding that regular physical activity has numerous benefits beyond physical appearance.
It can boost mood, improve focus, enhance creativity, and even help manage stress levels.
Moreover, they also pay close attention to their diet. They understand the connection between what they eat and how they feel and perform.
If you want to emulate the success of high achievers, investing time and energy into maintaining your health is a great place to start.
6) They embrace failure
Many, if not most, renowned figures have faced setbacks before achieving monumental success.
Thomas Edison’s numerous unsuccessful attempts at creating a functional light bulb, J.K. Rowling’s initial rejections from publishers for her now-celebrated Harry Potter series, and Steve Jobs’ very public ousting from Apple, a company he co-founded, all serve as testaments to the resilience required to overcome failure.
Top performers distinguish themselves not just by their successes but by their approach to failure. They do not perceive setbacks as insurmountable obstacles, but rather as critical learning opportunities that pave the way to success. This mindset enables them to extract valuable insights from each failure and integrate these lessons into their future strategies.
Embracing failure also means maintaining a proactive attitude towards risk. High achievers recognize that calculated risks are necessary for innovation and leadership. When they encounter failure, they meticulously analyze what went wrong, adjust their strategies accordingly, and proceed with renewed insight and resolve.
This resilience is vital for sustained success, creating an environment where continuous improvement is prioritized over temporary defeats. By consistently learning from failures, top performers develop a robustness that propels them forward, enabling them to tackle challenges that might deter others.
7) They are consistent
Above all, high achievers understand the power of consistency. They know that success is not the result of occasional grand actions but the product of small, consistent actions over time.
Whether it’s sticking to their morning routine, consistently setting and achieving daily goals, or maintaining their learning habits, they understand that consistency is key.
Success, in any field, requires perseverance and a steady dedication to your goals. It’s about showing up every day and doing the work, even when you don’t feel like it.
Final thoughts: It’s about the journey
The path towards becoming a high achiever is often less about the destination and more about the journey.
These habits we’ve discussed are not just stepping stones to success. They are integral parts of a fulfilling and meaningful life.
As you incorporate these habits into your life, remember that it’s not just about reaching the top. It’s about who you become along the way.
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What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
