6 unexpected traits of highly successful people
The article on Upworthy challenges the conventional view of success by highlighting six unexpected traits that contribute to achievement. It suggests that traits like gratitude, the ability to synthesize ideas, and maintaining a sense of awe can be as crucial as ambition. By presenting examples from successful individuals, such as Taylor Swift, who connects disparate ideas creatively, the piece illustrates how these traits can lead to innovative achievements and sustained passion.
Moreover, the article emphasizes the importance of flexibility and personal growth. It argues that successful people are not only context-aware but also committed to lifelong self-improvement, viewing it as a lifestyle rather than a finite goal. This perspective encourages readers to embrace a holistic approach to success, where optimism and gratitude balance ambition, fostering a more sustainable and fulfilling path to personal and professional accomplishments.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge is redefining what traits are essential for success beyond traditional notions of drive and ambition.
- The actions
- Experts and successful individuals highlight unexpected traits like gratitude, synthesis, and context-awareness as key to achievement.
- Evidence of progress
- Examples such as Taylor Swift's creative synthesis and testimonies from experts show how these traits lead to innovative and lasting success.
- What we can learn
- Others can learn that balancing ambition with gratitude, maintaining flexibility, and committing to personal growth are integral to sustainable success.
PERMA profile of this story
How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 9
- Relationships
- 6
- Meaning
- 7
- Accomplishment
- 8
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Gratitude
Dr. Eric George argues that gratitude provides perspective, humbles us, and helps us appreciate the journey.
Curiosity
Sinéad O'Sullivan describes Taylor Swift's 'synthesis' as the bravery to connect new and old ideas creatively.
Hope
Lolly Daskal emphasizes optimism as a strategy for a better future, encouraging responsibility for progress.
Perseverance
Highly successful people treat self-improvement not as a goal but as a lifestyle, reflecting a relentless commitment to growth.
Try this today
Reflect on a recent achievement and list all the external factors and people who contributed to it. Express gratitude for each contribution, and consider how this practice might influence your future endeavors.