The Psychology of High Achievers and How to Apply it In Your Life
Have you ever wondered what separates high achievers from the rest of us? A recent study by Stanford University found that 90% of high performers attribute their success to a strong work ethic and a goal-oriented mindset rather than raw talent or luck.
While those things can play a role, the real key to their success lies in their mindset and habits – things the rest of us can absolutely learn from. So, let’s explore nine concepts high achievers apply in their life and how you can apply them in your life.
1. Focus on Goals, Not Fear
Top performers are goal oriented. They understand the sentiment expressed by Abraham Lincoln: "The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time." They don't experience fear of failure any less than anyone else; however, their focus remains on what they want to accomplish.
People who get stuck in life are often driven by fear—fear of messing up, fear of the unknown, falling short, or facing judgment. Go-getters accept that mistakes are a part of the journey. They view obstacles as temporary detours, not dead ends.
How to apply it: Start small by setting crystal clear and achievable goals (with a bit of a stretch) for yourself. These can be daily, weekly, monthly, and/or yearly targets. Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, visualize your success, and start breaking those goals down into actionable steps.
Visualization is a way of tapping into the amazing power of your mind, so you can train your brain to help you create the kind of business and life you truly want. Download my complimentary Power of Visualization Guidebook by going to https://www.accountabilitycoach.com/visualization.
2. Celebrate the Wins (Even the Small Ones)
Achievers find true joy in the process. Every milestone, no matter the size, is a reason to celebrate. According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, taking the time to acknowledge accomplishments, big or small, provides a powerful motivational boost. This continuous stream of positive reinforcement keeps them motivated and energized.
How to apply it: Don't just power through your to-do list! Actively acknowledge and reward yourself. This could be a small treat, some downtime, or even just taking a moment to reflect on your accomplishments.
3. Mindset: Problem-Solving vs. Victimhood
Everyone faces challenges; that's just life. Top performers approach obstacles as puzzles to solve, not as reasons to give up. They don't get caught up in blaming external factors or feeling sorry for themselves. Instead, they focus on what's within their control and seek actionable solutions.
How to apply it: When faced with a setback, resist the urge to play the "why me" card. Ask yourself, "What can I do differently, better, or not do to make incremental changes to get the desired outcome I want? Are there resources or people I can turn to for help? What can I learn from this?"
4. Resilience is a Skill, Not a Personality Trait
High achievers aren't immune to failure – they just bounce back faster. Resilience is built through practice, just like any other skill. When they experience setbacks, they allow themselves to feel the disappointment and then actively reframe the situation.
They extract valuable lessons and move forward with renewed determination instead of dwelling on what didn't go perfectly.
How to apply it: It's okay to feel bummed and have, what I call, a 5-minute pity party, if you need to, when things don't go your way. Once those initial emotions pass, start looking for the lesson. What will you do differently next time? How can this experience make you stronger?
5. The Power of Positivity
Have you noticed how Trailblazers exude a sense of optimism? They see opportunities where others see problems.
It's not about ignoring difficulties but consciously choosing to cultivate a positive mindset. This makes them infectious to be around and builds stronger support networks that are vital to their success.
How to apply it: Start by becoming aware of your inner dialog. When negative thought patterns creep in, challenge them. Are you assuming the worst or generalizing one bad experience? Remember, your thoughts heavily influence your outcomes. How can you have more positive and optimistic thoughts?
6. Purpose: The Fuel that Drives Your Success
High achievers are fueled by a strong sense of purpose. They're not just chasing arbitrary goals; they are deeply connected to the why behind their actions.
Whether it's making an impact on their community or pursuing a lifelong creative passion, this purpose gives them the stamina to withstand long periods of hard work.
How to apply it: Ask yourself, "What would make me jump out of bed eager to start the day?" It doesn't have to be world changing. Focus on what personally fulfills you and find ways to integrate that into your daily life.
7. Embrace Learning: Growth over Stagnation
Top performers are lifelong learners. They have a deep thirst for knowledge. Rather than acting like they know everything, they ask a lot of questions, seek out expertise, and aren't afraid to admit when they're wrong. This relentless focus on growth and improvement puts them in a constant state of expansion.
How to apply it: Adopt a sense of curiosity. Make time for learning, whether that's taking a class, reading an industry blog, or listening to a podcast (like The Accountability Coach and The Accountability Minute). Challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone and expand your skill set.
8. Surround Yourself with the Right People
They say you're the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Go-getters carefully curate their inner circle, surrounding themselves with like-minded, positive individuals who lift them up rather than drag them down. They actively seek out mentors and role models who embody the success they aspire to.
How to apply it: Assess your current circle of influence. Are the people closest to you inspiring you or holding you back? Seek out supportive communities and actively look for people who are a few steps ahead of you– they'll push and inspire you to strive for more.
9. Rest is Not Optional, It's Strategic
Contrary to popular belief, Trailblazers don't "hustle" 24/7. They recognize that strategic rest is fundamental to long-term success.
They find joy in both intense work and relaxation. Whether it's taking a nature walk or enjoying a good book, they know how to switch off and recharge their batteries.
How to apply it: Stop glorifying being overworked. Schedule downtime just like any other important activity on your to-do list. Find activities that truly relax you and prioritize them– you'll come back sharper, even more focused, and more time efficient.
High Achievers are Made, Not Born
The most important thing to remember is that success isn't an accident. While talent plays a role, real Trailblazers are driven by consistent action and mindset shifts.
They prioritize progress over perfection. So, the next time you feel that internal criticism rise up, remember that go-getters have those thoughts, too, and they choose to act in spite of them.
Final Thoughts
Embracing the psychology of a go-getter doesn't guarantee overnight success. However, it does equip you with the tools to consistently move towards your goals, embrace the journey, and build a more fulfilling life. Remember, it's not about becoming someone else, it’s about being the best version of yourself.
Unlock a blueprint to creating and having your ideal business and ideal life by scheduling your free consultation with me today!
Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Get the proven strategies and resources you need for massive success. Subscribe to my blog now by going to https://accountabilitycoach.com/blog and start transforming your business today!
Go to https://www.accountabilitycoach.com to check out for yourself how I, as your Accountability Coach™, can help you get and stay focused on you highest payoff activities that put you in the highest probability position to achieve your professional and personal goals, so you can enjoy the kind of business and life you truly want and deserve.
Get your daily Accountability Minute shot of a single, simple, doable idea, so you can start your day off on the "right foot". You can find The Accountability Minute on https://www.accountabilitycoach.com/my-podcast/ as well as on most podcast platforms and in most English-speaking countries.
Take advantage of all the complimentary business tips and tools by joining the Free Silver Membership on https://www.accountabilitycoach.com/coaching-store/inner-circle-store/.
Connect with me on:
- Connect with me on Linked-in (https://www.linkedin.com/in/annebachrach)
- Subscribe to my YouTube channel with business success principles (https://www.youtube.com/annebachrach)
- Connect with me on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheAccountabilityCoach)
Check out my proven business accelerator resources by going to https://www.accountabilitycoach.com/coaching-store/.
I’m the author of many books, including, Excuses Don’t Count; Results Rule, Live Life with No Regrets, No Excuses, The Guide to Stopping Procrastination, The Power of Visualization, My Gratitude Journal, the Work Life Balance Emergency Kit, and The Roadmap To Success with Stephen Covey and Ken Blanchard, and more.
Aim for what you want each and every day!
Anne Bachrach
The Accountability Coach™
If you are getting value from any of my episodes, please take a minute to leave me a short rating and review. I would really appreciate it, and love to hear from you.
#accountabilitycoach #stopprocastination #limitingbeliefs #timemanagement #goalsetting #goalachievement #procrastination #businesssuccesstips #entrepreneurialmindset #mindset #businessownertips #smallbusinessownwers #businessgrowth #businessacceleration