Six simple things succesful people do every day

Success isn't easy — and it certainly doesn't happen overnight, but there are a few little things you can do every day to make sure you achieve your professional goals. Some of the most legendary leaders in the world, from Elon Musk and Oprah Winfrey to CEOs of Google and Facebook, all view success as a work in progress.

They key is to be patient and committed. Here are six things you can do on a daily basis if you want to be successful in your life:

1. Read a book that isn't related to your career

Reading is one of the easiest ways to experience life from another person's perspective and develop the empathy you need to be an effective leader. But it's important to expand your knowledge beyond.

There's a reason why Elon Musk includes science fiction books and biographies as some of the books in his reading list. "I was raised by books. Books, and after that my parents," Musk said in one of his interviews.

2. Get sweaty

No, this one is not about going to the sauna or doing exercise.

Developing the courage to do something outside of your comfort zone is a sign that you're leveling up. Otherwise, you won't get very far in your life. If you are afraid of public speaking, then be the first one to speak at your next event. Even if you get so nervous that you end up sweating, just do it anyway. It'll get easier with time.

Mark Zuckerberg spent years learning Mandarin. And he actually did a pretty good job mastering it. Fear and growth cannot exist at the same time. One has to go in order for the other to flourish.

3. Exercise

In the five-year study of rich people was found that exercising was something all of them had in common. The ones who have forged the habit of exercising daily have big competitive advantages over those who don't do it. Such advantages can be higher IQ , willpower, confidence and much more energy.

A number of billionaires such as Oprah Winfrey, Sheryl Sanberg and Richard Branson, include exercise into their daily routines. Research found that even small amounts of daily exercise can significantly extend your life.

4. Give back

The myth that the lone hero succeeded because they managed to pull themselves up is just that — a myth. Truly successful people understand the importance of giving back to people, especially to those who need it.

In 2010, Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett started the Giving Pledge, an organization by wealthy people and their families to give away more than half their fortune to causes like poverty alleviation and global health.

But it doesn't have to be massive amounts of money. It can be as simple as offering to help a colleague at work or an elderly person with their groceries. If you're too busy to give back or return a favor, then you're too busy to succeed in life.

5. Take a moment to remember your competition

Michael Jordan once said, "I play to win, whether during practice or an actual game. And I will not let anything get in the way of me and my competitive enthusiasm to win." The professional basketball player went from getting out of his high school basketball team all the way to six championships and creating one of the most valuable athletic brands in history.

Failing to forgive and holding grudges can weigh you down, but acknowledging your competition and those who doubt you could be a powerful form of motivation. It pushes you to do everything you can for the goal to succeed and prove them wrong.

6. Get outside and think

Everyone knows we all spend way too much time on our phones, but what we don't talk about is what so many fail to do: Leave the devices at home and go outside to walk and just think.

A study from the American Psychology Association found that outdoor walks can increase creativity and improve problem-solving skills. When there is a premium on generating new ideas in the workday, it should be beneficial to incorporate walks.

Mark Zuckerberg, Richard Branson and many others also love holding their meetings on foot because it helps with brainstorming new concepts. It is a much quicker way of getting down to business, making a decision and sealing the deal. Also it's a great way to fit in a bit of exercise and stay focused on a busy day.

Read more:

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