When was the last time you delved into the world of successful people’s habits?
What did you discover?
For me, it was Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
And although it’s a favourite for many (you might be one of them!), I didn’t absorb much from it.
I experienced the same with Tim Ferriss’s The 4-Hour Work Week – I found it unrelatable.
Maybe I wasn’t prepared to learn and grow back then, or perhaps I’d have a different take on them now.
Who knows.
There’s no shortage of books or articles outlining the habits of successful people.
But today, I want to share the personality traits of successful people I’ve encountered in real life.
These aren’t about their morning routines or workout regimens.
Instead, these are the admirable character traits I’ve observed in my landlord, who boasts an impressive property portfolio, the local entrepreneurs I interact with, and the senior managers I once worked alongside.
I paid close attention to these traits, hoping to learn and adopt them myself.
It’s a work in progress, but I’ve successfully integrated some.
So, here are 7 personality traits from successful people I’ve met in real life.
Success Leaves Clues: Real-Life Observations
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.
Winston Churchill
1. They’re Action-Oriented
I fondly refer to my current landlord as an “action man,” and he had a good laugh when I told him.
Like all the other successful individuals I’ve met, he’s a man of his word, diligently following through on his promises.
I have immense respect for those who take their commitments seriously.
By doing what they say they will, and when they say they will, they earn trust and respect in their industry or as high-ranking members of a company.
In essence, they take full responsibility for their words and actions.
No wonder they’re successful since integrity and reputation are essential to building successful relationships and, ultimately, thriving businesses.
We all know people who are all talk and no action.
That’s precisely why we admire and value those who walk the talk.
2. They’re Humble
He’s a humble man with much to be humble about.
Winston Churchill
From my landlord to business owners, one common characteristic I’ve noticed is their incredible humility.
Honestly, you wouldn’t even guess their wealth by their appearance!
They dress modestly, drive unassuming cars, and don’t boast about their financial successes.
These individuals are the epitome of quiet confidence.
Above all, they admit when they don’t have an answer.
They don’t pretend to know everything.
Instead, they’re eager to learn by acknowledging their knowledge gaps.
However, they possess an extensive understanding of their respective fields.
3. They’re Exceptional Communicators
We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.
Epictetus
Another trait I’ve observed in successful people is their outstanding communication skills.
They quickly capture others’ attention and establish rapport effortlessly.
This is one of the best traits I’m eager to adopt (quite desperately!).
These individuals are articulate and, more importantly, excellent listeners.
They give their full attention to others and listen.
4. They Possess Unwavering Vision
These individuals not only have a crystal-clear vision but are also incredibly passionate and enthusiastic when discussing it.
I recall one of them proclaiming,
I can’t imagine doing anything else.
They are self-aware and have a clear vision aligned with their core values, which brings them happiness.
Setting priorities comes naturally to them because they love what they do and are intrinsically motivated to achieve their goals.
Their objectives are well-defined, and they pursue them with a vigour that makes them exhilarating to be around and learn from.
5. They Radiate Positivity and Gratitude
Successful people exude an infectious positive energy.
They don’t complain, blame, or gossip.
The accomplished individuals I’ve encountered didn’t attain their success through sheer luck.
Many of them faced significant challenges early on, yet they often say,
I’m very fortunate.
They appreciate their achievements and express gratitude for what they have.
Their positive energy and attitude naturally attract others who want to spend time with them, as they uplift and create a pleasant atmosphere.
Their enthusiasm and optimism are contagious.
6. They Generously Share Time and Wisdom
These individuals generously offer their time and expertise.
They provide sincere, encouraging feedback without criticism and are always eager to help.
Most importantly, they practise what they preach, never coming across as preachy or pushy.
In fact, they rarely talk about themselves.
Only when I seek their wisdom do they share advice with a healthy dose of humility.
7. They Exhibit a Friendly and Mild-Mannered Disposition
Although being friendly isn’t a prerequisite for success, it’s undoubtedly a bonus when people are enjoyable to be around, easy to laugh with, gentle, kind, and polite.
The successful people I’ve met are approachable, mild-mannered, friendly, down-to-earth, and likeable.
Bonus: They’re Early Birds
Numerous studies suggest that morning people are happier or even earn more money than night owls.
Conversely, some studies claim the opposite.
It’s quite baffling, isn’t it?
The same confusion applies to countless diets.
Whether it’s a coincidence or not, the successful people I’ve met in real life all happen to be early birds.
That has to mean something!
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Traits of Successful People
One skill I’m actively working on is becoming an effective communicator.
I’m always captivated by people, both in writing and conversation, who seem to have the extraordinary ability to sell ice to Eskimos.
Warren Buffet once said,
You can get an MBA, but if you improve your communication skills, I will guarantee you that you will earn 50% more over your lifetime.
With that in mind, let’s take inspiration from these traits of successful people and continue to learn, grow, and adapt.
Who knows?
We may just uncover our own paths to success.
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