Passionate:  Their passion is evident, oftentimes before they utter a single word.  Just watch someone who fits this 'outstanding' category in action.  Observe their body language in discussing their profession, product, clients or customers.  Their eyes light up with possibility and an inner joy for not only what they do, but for respected individuals with whom they get to work.
 
Confident & Charismatic:  They genuinely like people and easily show appreciation and admiration. They are confident enough that they don't need anyone's approval. Instead, they focus upon enjoying the nuances of the person with whom they are interacting.
 
Innovative:  In the music world, think of singers/songwriters like Chris Martin (Coldplay), Bono (U2), or Brad Paisley (country) who constantly reinvent their sound.  Yesterday was good, but tomorrow will be even greater for these continually innovative stars.  Outstanding individuals never settle.  Instead, they constantly seek new perspectives and create.
 
Smart & Savvy:  They are highly intelligent and savvy enough to surround themselves with individuals who are smart, creative thinkers in order to expand their own thinking.  You'll often hear them say that they have people on their team who are "smarter than I am so I don't have to think of everything."
 
Stable with Strong Values: People who stand out in our minds are solid, dependable, human beings.  You know with whom you're dealing and what you'll receive in choosing to work with them.
 
Educated:  They have devoted themselves to not only the necessary credentials to perform at their highest capacity; they've made it their life's work to stay on top of changes, challenges and advancements in their profession.
 
Are you someone who is outstanding in youe field?  If so, congratulations!  I don't have to tell you to stay on course as you've created your course and it's clearly working for you.
 
If you're not there yet, which of the above qualities will you cultivate to bring you one step closer?  Not everyone can be or even wants to be 'outstanding in their field.'  You wouldn't be reading these success thoughts each week if you didn't possess a desire to at least take one baby step to that next level.

Leaders, send this message to your key team players.  You need all of your people to be outstanding to succeed and prosper.