Keys to Success

Think you have what it takes to be one of the most successful people in the world? Check this out. People with power and success all share a few of the same character traits;Energy and Physical Stamina The first key to success is an unparalleled work ethic. High achievers work for it, tirelessly! In order to do that, you need a lot of energy and the physical stamina to maintain that work ethic. Many work 60 – 65 hours per week, which to most seems more than gruelling. But the advantages are two fold. You will out work your competition and inspire those who work with you to do better.

How can I get more energy?

Exercise is one way to reduce fatigue and increase energy. In a work day it can be difficult to find the time to fit in some exercise and it may actually sound backwards to some people because they feel like after a gruelling workout their body would be tired. However, if you exercise, especially if you exercise daily, your body responds by releasing endorphins that actually boost energy levels and as an added bonus make you happier. Exercise can go a long way in helping with your success.

Focus

Simple and true. Staying focused on your goals will get you ahead. Most successful people stay focused in one industry and a one company. This prevents their energy from being diverted in any way. You attention remains focused on industry issues and you are able to build your power base.

"I believe every human has a finite number of heartbeats. I don't intend to waste any of mine." —Neil Armstrong

Sensitivity to Others

Being sensitive to what others want and being able to communicate with them is powerful. It is more than just recognizing their needs, it is about fulfilling them. In the end, this is all about influence. If you know what people want, and really understand them, you have the potential to have influence over them, and that will help you in the long run.

"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." —Audrey Hepburn

Flexibility

Sensitivity and flexibility go hand-in-hand with success. The flexibility that is important here involves being able to change your position depending on the situation. It allows you to tailor your presentation, being sensitive to the reactions of your audience, change when things are not working and gain allies.

"If you're not flexible, you'll pound your head against the wall and you won't see a different solution to a problem you're trying to solve." —Jeff Bezos

Ability to Tolerate Conflict

Fighting is sometimes a necessity; backing down from fights just means you are not going to win any. Sometimes, if they know you are not going to back down, you have already won! Being liked and being the most successful is generally not the same thing. In order to rise to power and success, you must be willing to engage in conflict with others.

"You can't please everyone, and you can't make everyone like you." —Katie Couric

Ego Aside – Get Along

But, you can’t be fighting all the time. Alliances and allies are necessary on a daily basis. If you know what the smart move is, you must be able to put your ego aside. It is that old saying of losing the battle to win the war.

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." —John Quincy Adams

Does any of this sound like you? If yes, you are well on your way. If some of it is out of your comfort zone – well, there is nothing wrong with being the most successful you that you can be!