Successful People Just Think Differently

The human brain processes thousands of thoughts per day.  And those thoughts turn into decisions which navigate our lives.  Of course some are more critical than others.  Should I refill my drink when the waitress asks?  Should I tell my boss that...well...let's stop there with that one! Do these shoes go with this outfit?  Do I need to exercise more?  Do I need to have a career change at this point in my life?  My friend could really use some heartfelt advice...should I say something?  


My guess is that many of us have the same thoughts every day.  And in the scheme of things many of us go about life in the same fashion.  So much so that some people describe their lives as living in a rut.  Same thousands of thoughts + the same thousands of decisions = rut.  And "rut living" is not a profitable way of living one's life and getting the most out of it.  


So what's up with people we would describe as "successful"?  How do they think differently from other people?
I actually know the answer to this one.  I was taught it back in elementary school when my fourth grade teacher Ms. Hovde said, "You can achieve wonderful things in life if you put your mind to it."


So with that in mind, here's how successful people think:
1.   They think beyond themselves and their world to see the big picture.
2.   They remove distractions and mental clutter to remain focused.
3.   They break outside of their box and explore options creatively.
4.   They build a foundation on facts to see things realistically.
5.   They create plans that will help them act strategically.
6.   They find solutions in every situation by looking at them positively.
7.   They consider the past and gain perspective by being reflective.
8.   They reject the routine and don't accept it just because it is popular.
9.   They reach out to others to join them and think with them collaboratively.
10. They consider others and add value to them unselfishly.
11. They focus on results knowing that the return comes from the bottom line.


So...what do you think now?