Success is like an iceberg, where we only tend to see the tip of one’s achievement. We fail to see the hard work behind their victory, unaware of the 30- foot waves they have had to navigate through. Nevertheless, even though they have skilfully mastered the high seas, they still need to guide their crew safely to land. In other words, successful individuals have and still will encounter battles, but they persist and persevere in an environment of continuous pressure. Success itself is not a goal, but it is a state of being.
To succeed and perform in these waters, there are firm traits these “captains” tend to share. These following characteristics form the grounds of how to become successful and how to live successfully:
Realise that “failure goes hand in hand with success”
Tenacious leaders accept challenges and obstacles and aren’t afraid to face these issues. Although it isn’t easy, these individuals don’t let these challenges bring negativity and hesitation into their lives as these negative emotions will only narrow the mind.
Many individuals live within the illusion that success is the end reward, believing that they have yet to reach success. Success is measured by satisfaction and learning. You need to recognize that challenges will open new skills of perseverance and thought, building a better you. Focus on what went wrong, then plan on how to avoid these mistakes.
Realistic Optimism
Realistic Optimists aren’t self-deluded or irrational. They adopt audacious goals, whilst evaluating the best way to achieve them and being aware of the struggles they will be confronted with. This key skill is achieved through being aware of their personal self and knowing what skills they encompass. This essentially grants and stimulates confidence, allowing leaders to be optimistic to look at the bigger picture.
Personable and an effective communicator
Successful individuals realise that their greatness is owed to the colleagues that have supported them. Therefore, you need to be a part of a team and not a domineering dictator who is distant from the team. Listening and asking relevant questions to your employees and clients is key in being an effective communicator as it demonstrates your care and support. Employees will be more productive in a work environment when a CEO portrays a willingness to learn and listen to opinions. This communication will invite ideas, feedback and workplace suggestions, leading to a sense of awareness and community in your workplace.
Considerate but firm
Being assertive doesn’t mean being rude or aggressive. It is the quality of expressing thoughts and feelings effectively and confidently. A leader must feel comfortable to be firm and bold, fearless about going after their goals and beliefs. Although the workplace dynamic may change, being bold will eventually change how people perceive you. You will eventually be valued for your openness and courage.
It’s important to not be aggressive when being assertive as you are trying to influence others on your opinion. Be sincere and approach people with solutions to their problems. This consideration will then be returned.
Conclusion
I hope this has either reaffirmed your own successful qualities or it has stimulated your thoughts on which qualities you’re lacking and how to improve on them. Today, you can be a leader or a follower. You need to decide whether you want to follow directions or make your own path on the high seas. These successful traits cost nothing to adapt and embrace, yet the outcomes could be invaluable.
