"No man is my friend. No man is my enemy. Every man is my teacher."

Simply translated, this old, and, possibly ‘politically incorrect’ adage, reaffirms that we all have much to learn from those around us. No matter how much we know, or, how good we are, the person right next to us knows more about something or does something better than we do. The trick is to learn -and apply - the positive traits of successful people. We will refer to them as "high achievers."

My definition of a high achiever is one who accomplishes their personal goals and aspirations while enriching the lives of those around them. After close examination, I have found that our role models excel in the control of, or, are proficient in, five key aspects of their lives: Mental, Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Spiritual . Read on, and analyze where you excel and where you have room for improvement.

Mental

Sensory goal oriented - Translate all your goals into something you can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste. If a new car is what you want, take a trip to the dealership and get a picture of your car. See it. Sit behind the wheel. Touch it. Marvel at the quietly purring motor. Hear it. Enjoy that distinctive new car aroma. Smell it. (I do not suggest you taste your new car, however!)

Tenacious - Sustain a focused work effort through the completion of each task, remembering that "Success is a journey, not a destination."

Continually learning - Read, study, listen, and grow. Albert Einstein said, " The more I learn, the more I realize I do not know. The more I realize I do not know, the more I want to learn."

See no obstacles - Convert all challenges into opportunities.

Emotional

Conquer fears - Attack what frightens you. They only grow larger if they are not overcome.

Be accountable - Take responsibility for actions and consequences. Adopt the philosophy, "everything that happens, happens in my best interest. Good, bad, or, indifferent, I will learn from it."

Value relationships - Develop a strong bond - and appreciation for - yourself, significant other, family, children, and friends. Never take anything -or anyone - for granted.

Live in the present - Plan for the future, learn from the past, and cherish today. "The past is history. The future is a mystery. The only gift we have is today, that is why they call it a present."

Bring out the best in others - People will become how we see them, and how we treat them.

Physical

Relieve stress - Find a way to minimize stress in our highly stressed world. Whether through quiet walks, soothing music, meditation, self-hypnosis, therapy, or, simply a hot bath, find what works for you.

Health oriented thoughts and actions - Be nutrition conscious, exercise regularly, and get more rest and sleep.

Financial

Be fiscally responsible - Simultaneously augment your needs and diminish your wants.

Be fiscally aware - Know where your money comes from and where it goes. Budget, plan, and succeed.

Earn your potential or desired income - Stop selling yourself short. Eliminate your glass ceiling. You deserve greatness .

Tithe - Give and expect nothing in return. "It is better to give than to receive."

Spiritual

Realize and acknowledge a higher being - Set time aside each day to be quiet and listen to the voice within waiting to guide you to success.

Throughout this article you will undoubtedly have recognized some of the qualities of the high achiever in yourself. Congratulations! Nurture those talents. As for the traits that are currently absent, write them down, and commit to making them a part of your profile. Remember, "Rome was not built in a day," and high achievers are developed, not born. One at a time, turn your weaknesses into strengths. Good luck.

Published: August 20, 1999

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Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Steven Poscente only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.