The 10 Attitudes of Successful Workers
Why do some people seem to really excel in life easily, while others remain constantly stuck in the middle or bottom of the mix? Some are super successful in their careers, while others constantly struggle to keep a job. You might think that it is just because successful people have more of what it takes to succeed, like brains, talent and powerful people in their corner. But there is something else that is just as important – or even more important: attitude.
Dr. Martin Seligman, an authority on optimism, discovered that attitude was a better predictor of success than I.Q., education and most other factors in predicting career success. He found that positive people stay healthier, have better relationships and go further in their careers. And he even found that positive people make more money.
Dr. Donald Clifton, the Father of Strengths Psychology and the Grandfather of Positive Psychology, convincingly persuaded the world that if one can identify, appreciate, and maximize their natural abilities, they will prosper personally and professionally. By placing attention on the positive, more positive will come.
Attitude is the keystone of character. It is the glue that holds your reputation together. You are known by others largely in part due to your character. Your attitude has been forming over the entire course of your lifetime. All the cumulative experiences you have had, lessons learned, and your reaction to life’s highs and lows all impact how your attitude will be today.
Anyone can adopt the right attitude. No matter where you are from or how much innate talent you have, the right attitude can make a difference in your career and in your life. Try adopting these 10 attitudes of successful workers:
1. I am in charge of my destiny.
If you spend your entire career waiting for something exciting to come to you, you will be waiting a long time. Successful professionals go out and make good things happen. So commit yourself to thinking about your career in an entirely different way. You will make it to the top, and you are in charge of making it happen.
2. Create a mental image based on the possibilities.
Think that there is no way you will ever be at the vice-president level? Then you definitely won’t. Remember: If you think you can’t, you probably won’t. Adopt the attitude of The Little Engine That Could — “I think I can.”
3. No task is too small to do well.
You never know when you are going to be noticed. That is one reason to take pride in your work — all of it. Character is made up of the string of decision and small tasks you undertake in life. Remember this the next time you feel like slacking because you are working on a menial task.
4. Everyone is a potential key contact.
While you do need to be aggressive in the workplace, you can also go far by being nice to those around you. Do you think it’s unimportant to establish a good rapport with your boss’s secretary? Well, just try getting your meeting squeezed onto the schedule when you really need it. Be courteous to those around you — you never know when your past contacts will play a role in your future. By reaching out to others, you will gradually surround yourself with a network of strength.
5. I was made to do this job… and the one above me.
If you spend your days feeling like you are not cut out to do the work you are responsible for, your performance will suffer. Successful workers act like they are in their dream job, no matter where they are. While your job may not be the perfect fit, make sure your job is able to utilize your natural abilities on a regular basis.
6. It’s not just what I know, but who I know.
Successful workers understand the importance of networking, both in and out of the office. You need to proactively establish professional contacts. Invite a colleague out to lunch. Go to the after-work happy hour. Join your professional association. Do your part to establish a networking path for your future. Basic rule: Give first.
7. What else can I do?
Since you are in charge of your destiny, it’s your job to look for ways to improve your professional self. Volunteer to take on an extra project. Learn a new skill that will make you more marketable. Stay late to help your co-workers. Successful workers don’t just complete the job and sign out — they look for additional ways to make their mark.
8. Failure will help pave the way to my success.
While it seems like some people never experience setbacks, the truth is everyone fails from time to time. The difference between successful and unsuccessful people is how they deal with failure. Those who find success are the ones who learn from mistakes and move on.
9. I am my own biggest fan.
Have you been waiting for someone in the office to recognize your talents and efforts? Successful workers know how to point out their achievements without sounding boastful. At a minimum, tell yourself that you are doing great work. Self-talk can be a powerful motivator.
10. My opportunity monitor is never turned off.
Yes, there will be days when you will want to just be happy with the status quo. But remember that successful workers are always on the lookout for opportunities to improve. Keep your eyes, ears and your mind open to new opportunities – you never know when you will discover the one that will change the course of your career!