The level of success of anyone in business is greatly determined by five (5) characteristics. Successful business owners place an inordinate focus on pathways to succeed. They think differently, develop networks differently, view relationships differently, and view working differently than average people.
Thomas Stanley, author of The Millionaire Next Door and the Millionaire Mind, has identified the top five qualities that determine success. The top five (5) character qualities are: integrity, discipline, social skills, a supportive spouse, and hard work.
Five Character Qualities That Increase Success
- Integrity – Being Honest With All People
This is a grade of pass or fail. You don’t get a B or C grade. B or C is failing on the integrity scale. There is no gray area.
- Discipline – Applying Self-control
Discipline can be seen in many areas. Do we get up at the same time constantly? Do we control our schedules or do they control use? Do we take time to exercise and eat right?
- Social Skills – Getting Along With People
Interacting with people is an absolute to success. The ability to sell your ideas and implement them is crucial. Convincing others that your ideas are worth implementing and putting into action are critical for leaders.
- A Supportive Spouse
The most successful have a spouse that is onboard and working toward a common goal. Your success starts at home. Your spouse and by extension your family have many more opportunities to observe who you are.
- Hard Work – More Than Most People
Working hard will put you ahead of 80% of your competition. This also assumes that you manage your time, work smarter not more, and delegate whenever appropriate.
Leaders have these five qualities. Leaders tend to be more successful. Leaders work to develop and improve themselves every day. If you improve in these five areas it will improve your success.
Question of the Week: Which of these areas can you improve to increase your success?
Quote of the Week: “Desire is the key to motivation, but it’s determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal – a commitment to excellence – that will enable you to attain the success you seek.” – Mario Andretti