Mindset is a huge part of any entrepreneur’s success, and I think it’s even more important when you’re a solopreneur or someone who relies on your own creativity to create your own success. So, it would make sense to me that if you’re wanting to improve on your own productivity, that taking a look at the traits successful, productive people exhibit is a good place to start.
As my good friend Val Selby* is fond of reminding me, “Mindset owns your business.”
The quick version is that someone with a highly productive mindset has a clear vision of what they want to achieve. This allows them to focus on goals and not get distracted by all those shiny objects out there. It’s also said that highly productive people are disciplined in their work habits and are able to stick to a schedule so they get things done.
Even in times of adversity, they are still looking for ways to improve productivity without falling into the “busyness trap.”
So, what exactly does a highly productive person look like?
Here are 8 traits of highly productive people:
1. They have clearly defined goals
Productive people know exactly what they want to achieve and have a plan for how to achieve it. They don’t just ‘phone it in’ but are actively working towards their goals.
2. They are focused and disciplined
Productive people have the ability to stay on task and stick to a plan, even in the face of adversity. They are able to avoid shiny object syndrome because they know it’s a distraction that keeps them away from their goals.
3. They are clear on their core values
Productive people take the time to make sure that their goals are always aligned with their core values, personal principles and morals. Because they believe in what they’re doing and it aligns with their heartfelt beliefs, it’s much less likely that they’ll give up before getting to the finish line.
4. They are organized and efficient
When a person is highly productive, they tend to use their time and resources wisely. Prioritizing is second nature, and they find it easy to focus on the task which are most important to their forward progress.
5. They are always learning and growing
Learning new skills and growing as a person are important traits for highly productive people. Being open to new ideas and being willing to change and pivot if something that will help them achieve their goals is a key element in their success.
6. They are positive and optimistic
Productive people are also people that believe in themselves and their ability to succeed. They have the confidence to overcome obstacles and don’t let setbacks hold them back for any length of time.
7. They are resilient
This goes hand in hand with being positive and optimistic. Resilience in productive people allows them to recover from setbacks and learn from their mistakes.
8. They are grateful for what they have
And finally, but perhaps most importantly, highly productive people are grateful for what they have and they appreciate the people and things in their life. They count their blessings at every step, even when times are tough.
Final Thoughts
If your plan includes being more productive in your life, you could do a lot worse than to focus on some of these traits as you do the inner work required for outer success.
Setting clear goals that are aligned with your core values and then creating a plan to achieve them will help to keep you on track to building your own success. With a clear action plan, you know what you have to do each day and it makes sticking to the plan and getting things done much easier.
Being able to stay focused, and just get on with the task at hand will also help keep things like stress and overwhelm at bay, at least where your work is concerned. Above all else, stay positive and grateful, and know that you are creating the best version of yourself along the way.
*Note: This post includes affiliate links, for which I will receive a small commission should you make a purchase.
