The DNA of Successful Leaders
Success is subjective. Your scorecard is probably different than mine.
True story.
But what isn’t subjective are the traits, the qualities, and the practices of the so-called “successful” people I’ve witnessed firsthand.
You see amigo, success isn’t an accident. Nope. Success is built on intentional habits, a focused mindset, and the decisions we make on the daily.
After two decades of coaching and working with high achievers, I’ve seen what truly separates the best of the best apart.
If you see yourself in the following list I’m about to share, know this: you’re moving in the right direction.
Here’s what I believe makes the difference:
1. You’re Competitive with Yourself
If you’re driven by a need to outperform your personal best, you’re already miles ahead of the competition. When you push yourself, success isn’t just about beating others; it’s about being better today than you were yesterday. And the day after that. And the day after that.
2. You Ask “Why?”
Challenging the status quo isn’t something everyone has the courage to do. But if you’re questioning business-as-usual and constantly digging deeper, you’re setting yourself up to stand out. Don’t settle—keep asking “Why?” until you get the answers that make sense.
3. You Have a Morning Routine
If you’ve developed a disciplined routine, especially in the early hours, you’re creating space to focus and set the tone for the day. Almost every successful person I know lives by a routine that prepares them for what’s ahead. Establish your routine, and let it be your foundation.
4. You’ve Survived Some Hardships
Challenges breed champions. If you’ve faced adversity early on, you’ve gained a resilience many never have. That grit will carry you through setbacks and help you pivot when things get tough. Embrace that strength—it’s part of what will help you rise when life inevitably punches you in the face.
5. You’re an Optimistic Pessimist
Success isn’t just about a positive attitude; it’s about realistic optimism. If you can look at the whole picture, balancing optimism with caution, you’re bringing both energy and perspective to the table. Use that advantage to stay grounded and future-focused.
6. You Don’t Ask for Permission
People who make things happen know when to take a leap. If you’re okay with moving forward on 70% certainty, you’re in good company. High achievers don’t wait for perfection; they act with confidence, trusting that the remaining clarity will come through action. Because it will.
7. You’re Committed to Continuous Improvement
Success demands growth. If learning is a big part of who you are, then you’re building a foundation that will keep you ahead. Make self-improvement a lifestyle, not just an activity—those who invest in their own growth rarely stay in one place for long. They move, evolve and grow. And, their lives and influence expand in generative and life-giving ways.
8. You Ask for Help
No one does it alone. Surround yourself with people who strengthen you in areas where you may be weaker. Build a network of mentors, peers, and friends who support your journey. Collaboration amplifies your strengths and fuels your momentum. It also blesses others, by allowing them to bless you.
Take this as a call to action: don’t leave these eight qualities unpracticed.
Lean into your strengths, be intentional with your choices, and keep putting one foot in front of the other.
Because success isn’t something you achieve—it’s something you continually build.
Put pen to paper on the top two or three success factors from the list above and ask yourself: how can I cultivate these in my everyday life for the rest of 2024?
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Steve Knox | Kansas City
/// Thanks as always for reading. You are why I write. Forward this out into your orbit. The people closest to you will appreciate the share. Until next week. Be honest. Be you. Much love.