8 Ways High Achievers See the World Differently

High achievers have a different way of handling life than average achievers — that’s no secret. But what exactly are they doing differently in life to get to where they are?

Here are eight ways high-achievers perceive the world differently.

1. THEY’RE STRATEGIC IN THE THINGS THEY ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR.

An average achiever thinks: “If I don’t agree to help out with this task for which I don’t have any time, I’ll look bad.”

A high achiever thinks: “By saying no to this task for which I don’t have any time, I’m ensuring that I’ll complete the rest of the tasks on my to-do list that matter more.”

2. THEY USE THEIR TIME WISELY.

An average achiever thinks: “If I stay up all night, I’ll be able to finish a chunk of my work, even if I’m tired tomorrow.”

A high achiever thinks: “I know I need sleep tonight so I can be more productive for the work week ahead.”

3. THEY SHOW, NOT TELL.

An average achiever thinks: “If I talk highly of my achievements, others will understand.”

A high achiever thinks: “If I put the hard work in, and show how dedicated to my career I am, others will understand.”

4. THEY WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER.

An average achiever thinks: “If I work extra hours this week, I’ll get more done and it’ll look good.”

A high achiever thinks: “If I prioritize the work I have to get done this week, I’ll keep myself from burning out so I can get the next batch of work done after.”

5. THEY FOCUS ON WHAT THEY HAVE, NOT WHAT THEY DON’T HAVE.

An average achiever thinks: “I wish I got that promotion or had this other, better job — then I’d be happy and successful.”

A high achiever thinks: “I’m so grateful for this job I have and the opportunities it presents me to feel happy and successful.”

6. THEY DON’T PROCRASTINATE.

An average achiever thinks: “This could definitely wait until tomorrow or Monday.”

A high achiever thinks: “There’s no better time to get started than today.”

7. THEY MAKE TIME FOR THEMSELVES.

An average achiever thinks: “I need to be there for everyone else and always offer to lend a hand so that I do my part.”

A high achiever thinks: “I need to take some time for myself, as well. If I don’t, I won’t be able to be fully present and available to others when they need a helping hand.”

8. THEY CREATE THEIR OWN OPPORTUNITIES.

An average achiever thinks: “If I don’t get this job, I’ll have to just take some other dead-end job or a filler until I can find something better.”

A high achiever thinks: “If I don’t get this job, I have the experience and know-how to create it for myself. I’ll give it a shot on my own!”