by Elaine Sihera

Created on: January 07, 2010   Last Updated: January 13, 2010

7 Attributes of the Most Successful People

There are all kinds of advice for success because that is one of the values we most cherish: to make something of our lives that we can be proud of; that we can look back on with joy and satisfaction and we can bequeath to the world as our own individual contribution. But what really makes a successful person in whatever strand of life one chooses? What makes the successful person different from one who has had problems in achieving their desires? If one studies the lives of the most successful people, certain qualities stand out above others.

 It seems there are seven key attributes that are important for real success, regardless of what success means to the individual, and they occur in the following order:

1. Purpose and Vision

One cannot be successful without some kind of vision or purpose. It would be like getting into a car and heading nowhere. You might see some great sights along the way but you are sure to get lost or to be distracted by trivia and you will not really get anything to bring back with you. Having a real purpose and the vision to exercise that purpose will lead to definite objectives in achieving it. This is the foundation for all success, especially a purpose that will benefit others and ultimately benefit you through being credited for it.

 2. Belief and Expectation

These underpin purpose and vision. Belief is the cornerstone of achievement. If you believe in yourself that you can make anything possible, you might not achieve the ultimate but you'll come pretty near to doing it. With belief comes optimism that it will happen and the expectation that it's just a matter of time before you get it. One cannot believe without being optimistic and expectant. That is not possible. That would suggest a lot of fear in the process, and fear and success do not go together. Having purpose and vision is like placing an order while belief and expectation ensure delivery.

 3. Risk Taking and Flexibility

If you truly believe and expect, you have to be prepared to take risks. You cannot believe and cower in inactivity and fear. Taking any risk necessary to achieve that goal, and being flexible in the risk-taking, are the only steps forward. Flexibility comes through reviewing your progress at every stage and being prepared to adjust, to correct or even to change course, if necessary. We are always learning and changing every step of the way. We are not the same person on Friday that we were

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>