Ethan Sterling
There’s something unique about people who consistently achieve great things in life.
It’s not merely luck or coincidence, and it’s certainly more than just hard work. It turns out, these high achievers often share a set of subtle behaviors which become the secret ingredient to their success.
In this article, we’re going to dig deep into the world of these successful individuals and pull out ten subtle behaviors they commonly exhibit.
Let’s dive right in!
1) They embrace failure
Successful individuals often have a distinct take on failure.
While many view it as a setback or a mark of defeat, these high achievers see it as a chance.
To them, failure isn’t an end but a stepping stone toward success. It imparts lessons and revelations that can’t be found elsewhere.
That’s why they don’t shy away from failure. Instead, they embrace it, knowing each misstep brings them closer to their goal.
This mindset empowers them to take risks and explore new paths where others might hesitate.
2) They’re relentlessly curious
Successful people have an insatiable hunger for knowledge. They are always asking questions, always seeking to understand more.
Let me tell you a story about my own experience.
As a kid, I was always the curious one in my family. I’d take apart toys to see how they worked, I’d ask endless questions about everything from why the sky is blue to how our television works.
My parents, though sometimes exasperated, always encouraged this curiosity.
Fast forward to now, I see how that relentless curiosity has shaped my life and defined my success. It led me to explore different career paths, learn new skills and constantly push my boundaries.
Like me, many successful people are never content with what they already know. They’re always on a quest to learn more, to gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and how they can make it better.
3) They practice gratitude
Successful people understand the power of gratitude. Instead of focusing on what they lack, they appreciate what they have. This attitude helps them maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of setbacks.
Research has shown that practicing gratitude can have a profound impact on our wellbeing. It has been linked to reduced stress and depression, improved sleep, and an overall greater sense of life satisfaction.
Here’s the thing: most high achievers I know often start or end their day by acknowledging what they’re grateful for. Whether it’s through a journal or a silent moment of reflection, this habit helps them stay grounded and focused.
So, make it a point to count your blessings regularly. It’s a simple yet powerful way to foster positivity and resilience on your path to success.
4) They set clear goals
Clarity is power. And successful people know this well.
They don’t just have vague aspirations. Instead, they set clear, specific, and measurable goals. They know exactly what they want to achieve and they have a roadmap to get there.
These high achievers also understand the importance of setting both short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals keep them motivated and moving forward, while long-term goals provide a bigger picture and a sense of direction.
In essence, having clear goals also allows them to track their progress, celebrate their wins, and adjust their strategies when necessary.
5) They’re resilient
Life is full of challenges, and those who achieve great things have learned to face them head-on. They’re resilient, able to bounce back from setbacks and keep going despite obstacles.
These individuals don’t let failures define them. Instead, they see them as temporary setbacks on the road to success. They learn from these experiences and use them to grow stronger.
Their resilience comes from a deep belief in their abilities and their vision. They know they have what it takes to overcome challenges, and they’re committed to their goals no matter what.
Keep in mind, resilience isn’t about avoiding difficulties, but about overcoming them. Cultivate this trait and let it guide you on your journey to success.
6) They show kindness
One of the most beautiful traits found in successful people is their capacity for kindness.
In a world that often equates success with ruthlessness or a ‘win at all costs’ mentality, it’s refreshing to see that many who achieve great things do so with a heart full of kindness.
They understand that their success isn’t just about them. It’s also about lifting others up, lending a helping hand, and making a positive impact in the world.
Whether it’s mentoring a young professional, volunteering for a cause they believe in, or just showing empathy and understanding, these individuals prove that success and kindness can indeed go hand in hand.
7) They prioritize self-care
In the pursuit of success, it’s easy to neglect our own well-being. But I’ve learned the hard way that this is a mistake.
A few years back, I was working relentlessly, trying to meet deadlines and achieve my goals. Eventually, it took a toll on my health and I ended up in the hospital. It was a wake-up call that made me realize that success is hollow if it comes at the cost of your health.
Like me, many successful people have realized the importance of self-care. They understand that in order to be their best selves and achieve their fullest potential, they need to take care of their physical, mental, and emotional health.
They make time for exercise, ensure they get enough sleep, eat healthily, and take breaks when needed. They also invest in their mental health by practicing mindfulness, managing stress, and seeking support when necessary.
8) They’re comfortable with being uncomfortable
It might seem odd, but successful people often choose the path of most resistance. They willingly step out of their comfort zones and face situations that make them uncomfortable.
Why? Because they know that growth happens in the realm of discomfort. By exposing themselves to new experiences, challenges and perspectives, they’re able to learn, adapt and evolve.
They might take on projects that seem daunting, or choose to tackle problems others avoid. They might seek feedback even when it stings, or say ‘yes’ to opportunities that scare them.
9) They’re lifelong learners
Successful people never stop learning. They’re always looking to expand their knowledge and skills, and they’re not afraid to admit when they don’t know something.
They read books, attend seminars, take courses, and seek out mentors. They’re constantly seeking to understand more about their field, the world, and themselves.
This continuous learning helps them stay adaptable and innovative. It helps them stay ahead of the curve and continue growing in their personal and professional life.
10) They believe in themselves
At the core of every successful person is a deep, unwavering belief in themselves. They trust in their abilities, their vision, and their potential to achieve great things.
This self-belief is what fuels their persistence, resilience and determination. It’s what helps them overcome setbacks, face challenges and keep going no matter how tough things get.
Sure, believing in yourself isn’t always easy. It requires courage, self-awareness and a lot of self-love. But it’s absolutely essential for success.
Trust the process, ignite your greatness
The journey to greatness in life is unique to each of us.
It’s not just about reaching the end goal; it’s about how we tackle the journey. And it’s the small but powerful behaviors—like resilience, curiosity, gratitude, and self-belief—that light our way.
These traits aren’t reserved for the elite; they’re accessible to all of us. They’re habits we can build, skills we can develop, qualities we can nurture.
So, keep in mind, success isn’t just hitting your targets. It’s also about the person you evolve into along the way.
