We all want to know the secrets to being successful, right? If you consult Google, you'll probably find 3,752 suggestions on habits that foster success. In the event you don't have time to filter through all of those, I've put together this short list to help you get some easy checks in the wins column.

Spend time with people who inspire you. 

Not only can you learn from their talents, but you also get your needed dose of motivation. A Harvard study done by social psychologist David C. McClelland found the people you spend the most time with “determine as much as 95 percent of your success or failure in life.”

It makes you rethink those #squadgoals, right? 

Now, this isn’t me telling you to cut people out of your life. Instead, it’s about building connections and relationships with people who positively influence the area of your life you want to improve. When you spend time with people who you admire, you are more likely to embody their inspiring beliefs and habits. 

Read about your industry often. 

Did you know that an hour of focused study a day could make you an expert in your field in five years? I bet you wish you started 4.9 years ago, huh? The good news is that today is still a perfect time to start. Staying on top of current trends and developments related to your industry builds insight. You’ll know where your field is heading and can spot potential setbacks. Plus, your first-hand knowledge will increase your credibility and value within your current organization. 

Establish a morning and nighttime routine.

Routines allow you to control your time, rather than simply being consumed by busyness. Many parts of your day are already a routine - grabbing your coffee and keys before you head out the door, checking your phone one last time before entering the office, watching the latest Netflix when you log off - All routines!

The key is to create productive routines. Consider starting and ending your day with activities like meditation, reading, and journaling. I like to identify my “top 3” for the day in the morning and review my wins/lessons at the end of each day. 

Celebrate the small wins. 

It’s what will keep you going! When you reward yourself for the hard work you’ve put in, you’ll feel motivated to hit the next mark. The milestone and reward you choose are up to you, so it can be as small or as grand as you like. Just completed a work project and been eyeing a new pair of shoes? Go for it! Want to try out a staycation for sticking to your 90-day career plan? Book it! This is a judgment free-zone.

Prioritize rest. 

Without it, you’ll go nowhere fast. As they say: life is a marathon, not a sprint. Hitting pause from the bustle of work-life is not only beneficial, but it's also necessary. Otherwise, you’re sure to burn out. Fast. If you’re looking for ways to prioritize rest, start first with unplugging. Silence notifications on all your devices. Even for just an hour. Then, focus on you.

Next Steps

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