
Photo:Stockholm Streetstyle
If you’re anything like me, you love learning about how successful self-made leaders got to be where they are today. While stories about those who have made it to the top are as varied as they are inspirational, (check out our profiles on amazing inspiring women to find out about the variety of successful women there are!) they have something in common that we rarely get to read about – the things they didn’t do!
Looking at the habits and behaviors that could be standing in the way of your success is not easy but necessary to grow. You can find more out here about how to break a bad habit. But for now, carry on reading to learn the 5 things you definitely shouldn’t do if you want to get ahead:
#1 Successful people don’t lose control of their thoughts
Your thoughts become your words, which become your actions, which become your reality. Benjamin Disraeli, former British Prime Minister, once said: “Nurture your mind with great thoughts, for you will never go any higher than you think.” It’s easy to let your thoughts run wild and control you. However, if you want to be successful, you need to learn to harness your thoughts for good!
#2 They don’t give into vices
You’re not going to want to hear this, but many successful people achieved success by making sacrifices, choosing to be productive and stay focused even when tempted. They don’t have time for gossiping, picking apart coworkers’ flaws, or sitting around on the couch all day.
#3 They don’t make enemies
This doesn’t mean successful people don’t have enemies (haters gonna hate, right?) but they don’t seek out drama. They try to see things from other people’s perspectives and understand that getting along with people is critical to their success. Learning to gracefully interact with people who are negative, critical, angry or just all-around terrible is absolutely necessary to making it.
#4 Successful people don’t give in to their fears:
We can’t help having basic human fears, from fear of failing to not being good enough, but they can be limiting if left unchecked. Yes, overcoming your fears is easier said than done, but it pays to recognize what it is that’s holding you back and consider what steps to take to move past them. Read why you need to be fearless to be successful here.
#5 They don’t sacrifice their values
Knowing who you are, what you believe, and what lines cannot be crossed is very important to getting what you want in life. Don’t let anyone stop you from achieving your goals!
By Colleen Bordeaux
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