In his inspiring book, Quitter, Jon Acuff discusses an observation he’s made. Jon has talked with many people who say things like, “I’m a teacher, but I really want to paint.” He identified a trend in people who aren’t following their dreams. Many say, “I am a ____, but I really want to ____.” They feel stuck, scared, or don’t know how to chase their dreams. They continue showing up to work, miserable, unengaged, longing for something to change.
After reading Quitter, I traveled to Philadelphia for work. On night, a few friends and I went out to dinner. We passed a pleasant evening learning about each other’s work and passions. As we talked, I was struck by a stark contrast to Acuff’s insight. I realized that some of the most happy people I know love their job AND they actively pursue other passions.
Those conversations led me to realize that those of us pursuing our potential and our dreams share 6 distinguishing qualities everyone can nurture.
What’s great is these apply on and off the job. People with these qualities live them out in multiple areas of their life. It’s who they are.
1. Self-Awareness
High performers invest the time to know themselves well. They know what drives them, their values, passions, strengths, talents, gifts, skills. If you don’t know yourself, how can you expect to maximize your attributes and pursue endeavors you connect with at a visceral level? Set aside time to get to know yourself more intimately through reflection, journaling, assessments/questionnaires, mentoring or counseling. I guarantee the time spent will be a worthy investment.
2. Limitless Thinking
Unlike mediocre performers who focus on their limitations, high performers direct their thoughts toward the possibilities. They focus on the best case and solutions to obstacles that may lie in their paths. When we focus on limitations, we can become convinced of our ineptness, that indeed the deck is stacked against us and we might as well save ourselves the embarrassment of trying. This voice that brings doubts, worries and fears is what Seth Godin calls “lizard brain.”
Instead, direct your thoughts toward the best possible outcomes, scenarios and opportunities. Dream a little! This will train your brain to be more optimistic and ultimately overcome obstacles on your way to achieving your goals.
3. High Opportunity Radar
Jeff Brown and Mark Fenske, authors of The Winner’s Brain, first introduced me to this concept. With a mind toward possibilities, high performers have an undeniable sixth sense for opportunities that aid them in pursuing their dreams and achieving their goals. As they practice, network, read, grow or struggle toward their goals, high performers are keenly aware of the factors around them that may be assets (social connections, knowledge, environment, etc.) to them now or in the future.
4. Bravery
High performers dream big, think without limits and have keenly attuned radars for opportunities. But they also have the bravery to act. High performance doesn’t come without risk, fear, or adversity. As the adage goes, “nothing good ever comes easy.” In order to pursue your dreams, you have to take calculated risks, make big decisions and fight against the status quo. Paul Harvey once said, “You can tell when you’re on the road to success; it’s uphill all the way.”
5. Purpose-Driven
It seems to me that those folks seen as high performers have ulterior motives. While that phrase often refers to selfishness or a hidden agenda, what I’m referring to is a fuel for their passion that comes from something bigger than themselves. For some, this is a spiritual calling, while others are driven by a cause, such as putting an end to injustice like human trafficking or increasing awareness of adoption and foster care for children to have a brighter future. What is fueling your passion? What is your why?
6. High Degree of Follow-through
Each of the previous 5 qualities are extremely valuable, but not if they don’t translate into action. I’m talking about purposeful action; busyness and follow-through are not synonymous. This is where high performers create, develop, execute, ship, deliver, and achieve. They finish what they start and know when to move on.
Quite frankly, this is how the rest of the world distinguishes someone who is a high performer from those who aren’t. Follow-through is observable, behavioral and productive. High performers get things done. They add value and they take purposeful steps toward their goals every day.
I’ve had the privilege to work alongside some truly great performers over the last several years. Many of them could say, “I love being a ____ and I also enjoy _____.” Jan is a trainer and helps people enhance their well-being through ceremony. Elenor is an instructor and a consultant. Laura is a jewelry designer and volunteers with youth. Tom is an engineer and a blogger. David is an Noncommissioned Officer in the U.S. Army and a phenomenal high fashion photographer.
These friends are fascinating to talk with, not because of what they do, but who they are. High performers have an unquenchable thirst for life, pursuing their passions. I invite you to consider how you can nurture these 6 qualities yourself.
Question: What quality would you add to this list? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Links:
Book: Quitter: Closing the gap between your day job and your dream job by Jon Acuff
Book: The Winner’s Brain by Jeff Brown and Mark Fenske
Post: Optimism: Your Secret Weapon