Through the years I've had a great opportunity to work with and get to know some highly successful people, and I've noticed they have the following traits in common:

1. They work hard. Yes, they play hard, too. They get up early, they rarely complain, they expect performance from others, but they expect extraordinary performance from themselves. Repeated, high-level success starts with a recognition that hard work pays off. This discipline flows naturally from inner vision and character.

2. They have laser like focus. They know what they want to achieve and what they stand for. What is your primary focus right now? If you can't write it on the back of your business card, then it's a sure bet that your success is suffering from a lack of clarity. Take the time necessary to get your focus back on what's important.

3. They are incredibly curious and eager to learn. They study, ask questions and read - constantly! An interesting point, however: While most of them did well in school, the difference is that they apply or take advantage of what they learn. Repeated success is not about memorising facts, it's about being able to take information and create, build, or apply it in new and important ways. These successful people want to learn everything about everything!

4. They network. They know lots of people, and they know lots of different kinds of people. They don't have to be "the life of the party", they may in fact be quiet, but they value people and they value relationships. These successful people have a list full of people who value their friendship and return their calls. They also appreciate that it's not only who they know but who knows them. They are connectors for their local business community.

5. They work on themselves and never quit!  Really successful people work on their personality, their leadership skills, management skills, and every other detail of life. When a relationship or business deal goes sour, they assume they can learn from it and they expect to do better next time. These successful people don't tolerate flaws; they fix them!

6. They are extraordinarily creative. They go around asking, "Why not?" They see new combinations, new possibilities, new opportunities and challenges where others see problems or limitations. They ask for advice, try things out, consult experts and amateurs, always looking for a better, faster, cheaper solution. Successful people create stuff!

7. They are self-reliant and take responsibility. Incredibly successful people don't worry about blame, and they don't waste time complaining. They make decisions and move on, they take the initiative and accept the responsibilities of success.

8. They are usually relaxed and keep their perspective. Even in times of stress or turmoil, highly successful people keep their balance, they know the value of timing, humor, and patience. They rarely panic or make decisions on impulse. They ask the right questions, and make sound decisions, even in a crisis.

9. Extremely successful people live in the present moment. They know that "Now" is the only time they can control. They have a "gift" for looking people in the eye, listening to what is being said, enjoying and paying full attention to whatever they choose to be doing that moment. They never seem rushed, and they get a lot done! They take full advantage of each day. Successful people don't waste time, they use it!

10. They "look over the horizon" to see the future. They observe trends, notice changes, see shifts, and hear the nuances that others miss. Extremely successful people live in the present, with one eye on the future!

11. Repeatedly successful people respond instantly. When a strategy isn't working out, they adjust. When they see an opportunity, they make the call. If an important relationship is cooling down, they take time to renew it. When technology or a new competitor or a change in the economic situation requires an approach, they are the first and quickest to respond.

12. They take time out for themselves. While success is invigorating, it is also tiring, they take care of their physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs.

13. They under promise and over deliver.

These traits work together in combination, and none are genetic! They can be learned. They are free and they are skills you can use...

Start now, and make 2012 a Highly Successful Year for you!