Albert Einstein, who is one of the most effective inventors and thinkers in the history of the world, once said there are only two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle … or you can live as if everything is.
Einstein, of course, is talking about the power of your mindset. So here’s my question for you: how would you describe yours?
It’s an important question. Because highly effective people think differently. And this leads them down the path to success.
Want to learn how to get there? Then start by copying these 11 characteristics of people with highly effective mindsets.
1. They enjoy the present moment.
The past is behind you and the future is impossible to predict. Highly effective people know this, and that’s why they choose to focus on the present. Stop worrying and thinking about what you don’t have. Take a look around you right now at this very moment and realize that life is a gift.
2. They take action.
Elite achievers dream big but start small. They know knowledge is useless without action. When they learn something new, they go apply that knowledge. Action is the only thing that will get you to where you want to be in life.
3. They accept and embrace challenges.
When people with highly effective mindsets take action, they tackle tough projects first. They want the opportunity to prove themselves and grow stronger and smarter. They definitely don’t back down from challenges.
4. They’re self-disciplined.
Highly effective folks know that anything worth getting in life takes work. So they maintain a rigorous, disciplined level of focus, and they don’t get distracted from their end goals.
5. They remain positive.
Being positive is the “golden key” to a long and happy life. Highly effective people are optimists. They go through tough times too, but they understand the amazing impact a good attitude can have on their health and well-being.
6. They have a willingness and drive to help others.
Successful people know this to be true: to get what you want in life, you need to help others get what they want. Go out of your way to help people every day. You’ll get much more back than you put in.
7. They are resilient.
Highly effective people know that growth doesn’t happen overnight. They remain resilient even in the face of adversity and stop at nothing to achieve their goals and dreams.
8. They have a passion for learning.
People with highly effective mindsets never stop learning. They soak up as much knowledge as possible. They strive to become experts in their field. They view every day as an opportunity to learn something new, harness their strengths, and improve upon their weaknesses.
9. They believe in themselves.
Paulo Coelho said, “There are moments when troubles enter our lives and we can do nothing to avoid them. But they are there for a reason. Only when we have overcome them will we understand why they were there.” This is how you should look at setbacks in your life. Don’t ever lose faith in yourself or your ability to do amazing things in this world. Believe.
10. They have growth mindsets.
In her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck says there are two types of mindsets: fixed and growth. If you have a fixed mindset you believe talent and circumstances create success. This leads you to self-handicap yourself. When you have a growth mindset you believe you have the power to change your circumstances by seeking opportunities to grow and get better. If you’re stuck in a fixed mindset, you’re holding yourself back.
11. They take calculated risks.
Whether you want to become your own boss or lose stomach flab, ask yourself this question: will you be better off by never starting or by taking a chance and risking failing?
It’s an easy answer. Take risks in life. It’s the only way to grow.
