What separates the highly accomplished from everyone else? As we approach the end of the year, I reflect on the interviews and dialogues I’ve had this year with highly accomplished individuals—professors, CEOs, authors, leaders, professionals, successful creatives, and others—who shape our culture and society. Through these rich conversations, it continues to confirm my understanding that success isn’t a matter of luck or innate talent. Instead, it’s about intentional habits, strategies, a growth mindset, and a strong connection to identity and purpose.

The good news?

These strategies aren’t exclusive to the elite. They are accessible and applicable to anyone who wants to live with greater fulfilment and achievement.

Here are 10 evidence-backed approaches to help you thrive.

1. Cultivate a Growth Mindset

   When I first encountered Carol S. Dweck’s Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, I immediately shared it with a lawyer friend. We were both navigating the challenges of raising toddlers while managing demanding careers. Together, we embraced the idea that challenges are opportunities to grow. Dweck’s research emphasizes that “In a growth mindset, challenges are exciting rather than threatening. They offer opportunities to learn.” Inspired by this, we decided to approach setbacks as stepping stones rather than obstacles. Years later, this growth mindset has not only shaped our professional paths but also influenced our now high-school-aged children, who are learning to view failures as opportunities for growth.

   Try It: Reframe setbacks as learning opportunities. When you face a challenge, ask, “What can I learn from this experience?”

2. Build Identity-Based Habits

   As a change agent, I have guided many to build habits that align with their identity and values. James Clear, in Atomic Habits, emphasizes, “The most effective way to change your habits is to focus not on what you want to achieve, but on who you wish to become.” Successful individuals align their habits with their values, making their actions a reflection of who they are.

   Try It: Instead of saying, “I want to exercise,” say, “I’m someone who values health.” Set visual cues, like keeping your workout shoes visible, to reinforce your identity-based habits.

3. Set Clear Goals with Purpose

   Stephen R. Covey, in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, advises, “Begin with the end in mind.” I explored this in my previous blog on developing a Legacy Mindset. Successful individuals set goals that are rooted in their values and purpose, giving their efforts clarity and direction.

   Try It: Write down your long-term vision and break it into actionable, measurable steps using the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).

4. Engage in Reflective Practices and Read Widely

   Aristotle wisely said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” Self-awareness and reflection are key to achieving long-term goals, and successful individuals regularly evaluate their progress and adapt their strategies. Reading widely fosters this self-awareness by offering diverse perspectives, expanding horizons, and deepening our understanding of ourselves and the world. For me, reading serves as both a mirror and a lens, sharpening my self-perception while providing fresh ideas to tackle challenges. For inspiration, check out my 10 most recommended books.

   Try It: Dedicate 10 minutes daily to journaling and another 20 minutes to reading. Reflect on what went well, what didn’t, and what you’ll do differently tomorrow. Let reading become your window into new ideas.

5. Prioritize Resilience and Gratitude

   Resilience is a hallmark of accomplishment. As Maya Angelou said, "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." Alongside resilience, gratitude rewires the brain to focus on abundance and possibilities, fuelling motivation and perseverance.

   Try It: Break large challenges into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrate progress. Every evening, write down three things you’re grateful for to cultivate a positive mindset and build your resilience.

6. Align Actions with Core Values

   After reading Charles Duhigg’s The Power of Habit, I began to understand the power of aligning daily actions with core values. Duhigg reminds us that “Change might not be fast and it isn’t always easy. But with time and effort, almost any habit can be reshaped.” Health is one of my values, and this realization inspired me to set a goal to run a half marathon. This habit not only transformed my fitness but also helped me complete my PhD, as the discipline carried over into my academic pursuits. Working on one core value is likely to help you establish others and bring fulfilment.

   Try It: Identify your top three values and audit your schedule. If you want help discovering your core values, click here, or aligning your values with your career, read this. Are your actions aligned with what matters most to you? Adjust as necessary to reflect your priorities.

7. Stay Intrinsically Motivated and Disciplined

   Successful individuals maintain motivation by connecting with their intrinsic values. According to self-determination theory (SDT), developed by psychologists Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan, intrinsic motivation is fuelled by three core psychological needs:

   • Autonomy: The desire to have control over your decisions and actions.

   • Competence (Mastery): The drive to improve skills and achieve a sense of accomplishment.

   • Relatedness (Purpose): The need to connect with something larger than yourself and build meaningful relationships.

   When these needs are fulfilled, individuals experience higher engagement, better performance, and greater satisfaction. Discipline, when paired with this intrinsic drive, allows you to translate your motivation into consistent action, making your dreams attainable.

   Try It: Reflect on your “why.” Why do you do what you do? Let this purpose inspire your daily efforts and sustain your progress.

8. Master Clear Communication

   The power of clear communication cannot be overstated. Watching TED Talks has shown me how well-delivered ideas can inspire action and bring new possibilities to life. Accomplished individuals prioritize communication as a tool to motivate, uplift, and share their vision effectively. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, the ability to articulate your thoughts with clarity and purpose builds trust, resolves conflicts, and drives collaboration.

   Try It: Ask a trusted friend or mentor to assess your communication skills. Focus on areas for improvement and practice conveying your ideas clearly and persuasively.

9. Build a Supportive Network

   We are social beings, and success often hinges on the strength of our networks. Surrounding ourselves with people who challenge, inspire, and hold us accountable can bridge gaps in our skills and knowledge. Stephen Covey encourages, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”

   Try It: Build connections with mentors, join professional groups, or engage in communities that align with your values and aspirations.

10. Take Decisive Action

    James Clear reminds us, “Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.” Accomplished individuals don’t wait for perfect conditions; they act with confidence, knowing that progress comes from consistent, intentional steps. Each action builds momentum, fosters learning, and reinforces their commitment to their goals. They understand that action, even imperfect, is the key to overcoming fear and turning aspirations into reality.

    Try It: Take one small step toward your goal today. Whether it’s making a call, starting a task, or committing to a new habit, progress begins with action.

Conclusion

These 10 strategies remind us that success isn’t about luck—it’s about making intentional choices, building daily habits, and staying true to your values. Which strategy speaks to you the most? Take one small step today to incorporate it into your life. Transformation happens through consistent, deliberate actions. Start building the life you envision today.

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About the Author

Lidia Lae, Ph.D., is a writer, psychologist, and speaker, committed to empowering individuals and organisations to build healthier cultures for meaningful contribution.