Two Key Habits of Successful People
Successful people like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs share these habits
We all want to succeed. But what makes some people more successful than others? Author and entrepreneur Tim Ferriss spent years talking to top performers. He found two simple habits that help them stay focused, calm, and productive.
1. Meditation: A Workout for Your Mind
Many successful people meditate or practice mindfulness. This can be journaling, walking, or swimming. Tim Ferriss likes Transcendental Meditation (TM). It involves repeating a mantra for 20 minutes, twice a day. Oprah Winfrey, Lady Gaga, and Ray Dalio also do TM.
Bill Gates used to think meditation was strange. Now, he does it for about 10 minutes a few times a week. It helps him stay focused and sharp.
If traditional meditation is hard, try activities like running, biking, or swimming. These can calm your thoughts and improve your focus.
2. The Power of Saying “No”: Protect Your Time
Meditation calms the mind. Saying “no” protects your time. Successful people are careful about what they say “yes” to. Steve Jobs once said, “Focusing is about saying no.” It’s not about being rude. It’s about protecting your time, peace, and energy.
Warren Buffett agrees. He said, “Successful people say no to almost everything.” Learning to say “no” politely but firmly is a powerful habit. It helps you focus on what truly matters.
How You Can Start These Habits
You don’t have to be a billionaire to benefit from these habits. Start small and be consistent.
Meditation
- Start with just 5 minutes a day.
- Use guided meditation videos or apps.
- Slowly increase the time you meditate.
Saying “No”
- Practice gentle ways to say “no”:
- “Let me think about it and get back to you.”
- “Thanks for the invite, but I can’t this time.”
As you build these habits, you’ll gain more clarity, energy, and focus. Success often comes down to two things: a calm mind and protected time. These aren’t just habits of the wealthy. They’re skills anyone can learn and use. They might just be your key to achieving more with less stress.
