If you’ve ever done anything to improve your situation in life, you know it took a bit of effort. Whether it’s graduating, landing a new job, sealing an important relationship, or improving your fitness, nothing will happen without you taking a few different steps.
But it’s not always the big changes which reap the most rewards. If you ask high achievers about the secrets of success, more often than not, the little things they do every day point them in the right direction and keep them headed there.
We are always inspired by the success of our colleagues. But what exactly sets these people apart from the crowd?
Here’s a list of tips and tricks CEOs and presidents alike have cited as the secrets to their success.
What Successful People Do
They Wake Up Early
As unappealing as it may sound, the CEOs of Apple, Starbucks, and Disney are among those who get up in the early hours of the morning.
Our brains get sharp in the morning and being in the top gives you an automatic advantage.
They Prioritize
Many successful people pick the most important item on their to-do list and tackle it first, even before looking at their emails, inbox messages, or on the phone.
You’ll be at your best right from the start, and that will prevent big tasks from looming over you for the rest of the day.
They Exercise
From actors to business moguls, a common practice among great entrepreneurs is to exercise regularly.
Whether you prefer running, yoga, or aqua Zumba, staying active will keep you energized and focused.
They Make Specific Goals
“I want to get in shape!” or “I want a promotion!” it just isn’t enough. Your goals should be broken down into smaller, achievable steps.
Find out what the first step is: booking a gym induction or staying later at work – and take it!
They Read
Bill Gates and Emma Watson are among the bookworms of the successful. Books, articles, poetry – all this will expand your knowledge.
In the wise words of Tyrion Lannister, “A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone.”
They Maintain Balance
Even people who hold some of the most important positions in the world spoke about the importance of having time to relax and be with your loved ones.
Making sure you’re giving yourself some time off will stop you from burning out or resenting your work.
They Prepare
From choosing clothes to packing and preparing food the night before, successful people make sure that when the alarm goes off in the morning, they are ready to go.
They Ask For Help
No one achieves great success alone. Your best source of wisdom and knowledge are the people around you. Network with them and pick their brains.
They can help you in ways you never could have imagined, and the journey to the top will be a lot less lonely.
