9 Things Success-Oriented People Do

It's a long journey. Here's how to get started.

Posted Aug 08, 2015


Each of us can probably name an "overnight" success story, but most successful people actually spend countless hours nurturing and caring for their beloved projects. Many people assume that most successful people have things handed to them or that it comes with little effort. What is less obvious, however, is that they more typically become successful because of what they practice.

Here are 9 things that success-oriented people practice:

1. They are prepared for the journey. And they know the journey is an expedition rather than a stroll. Along the way, they encounter obstacles that no one warned them about, walk down poorly lit paths and discover a great deal about themselves.

2. They see everything as an opportunity. They even see rejection as an opportunity for personal and/or professional growth. Their strength comes from knowing that rejection is not the end of the world, and understanding how to use it. This is why success-oriented people don't panic when they see an obstacle; they have confidence that they will work through the challenge.

3. They ask important questions. And the questions they ask themselves are far more important than the ones anyone asks them, questions like: Who do I want to reach? Is this goal serving a higher purpose? Who can I ask for honest feedback? What keeps me motivated?

4. They practice balance. They know they are on a journey and that self-care is critical. They realize that things can began to go sideways if they focus too much on just one issue. Going back to the expedition metaphor, success-oriented people know that if they use all of their energy to climb one hill and don't properly pace themselves, they will run out of "fuel" to complete journey. In other words, they take breaks and participate in non-work related activities.


5. They know that the core values of determination, discipline, perseverance, and hard work produce golden results. Many people want instant results, but it's thoughtful, well-planned intentions that carry successful people to the finish line.

6. They are fully aware of their blind spots. They are open and ready to ask for help in areas that they haven't mastered. They know that others can see things they can't, and that sharing different perspectives provides new opportunities for growth.

7. They are always a student. They may be reading, doing independent research or engaging in new conversations, but their Number One goal in these activities is to learn. They know that they are responsible for laying the foundation for their success, and this growth comes from broadening their knowledge base.

8. They are not caught up in labels or status symbols. They know that golden opportunities are sometimes the ones others overlook or don't see as popular. Success-oriented people know that a brand name isn't always the best value for their business. They know what is the best fit.

9. They practice gratitude. They adopt this practice as part of their daily habits. They are grateful not only for career accomplishments but also for any help that they receive along the way. They are quick to say a sincere "Thank you" to those who offer them support.

Success comes in many different forms
and opening your perspective about
it can shape your path.

Kristin Meekhof is a licensed master’s level social worker. She graduated from Kalamazoo College with a major in psychology and completed the master in social work program at the University of Michigan. She is the author of the forthcoming book, “A Widow’s Guide to Healing: Gentle Support and Advice for the First 5 Years.”

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