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10 Attitudes of Successful Workers - Article For Discussion

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10 Attitudes of Successful Workers

By Kate Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Editor

Why do some people seem to reach the top of the corporate ladder easily,
while others remain stuck on the middle-management rung? You might
think that it is just because those people have more of what it takes to
succeed, like brains, talent and powerful people in their corner. But there is
something else that is just as important: attitude.

Dr. Martin Seligman, an authority on optimism, discovered that attitude


was a better predictor of success than I.Q., education and most other
factors. He found that positive people stay healthier, have better
relationships and go further in their careers. And he even found that
positive people make more money.

Anyone can adopt the right attitude. No matter where you are from or how
much innate talent you have, the right attitude can make a difference in
your career. Try adopting these 10 attitudes of successful workers:

1. I am in charge of my destiny.
If you spend your entire career waiting for something exciting to come to
you, you will be waiting a long time. Successful professionals go out and
make good things happen. So commit yourself to thinking about your
career in an entirely different way. You will make it to the top, and you are
in charge of making it happen.

2. Anything is possible.
Think that there is no way you will ever be at the vice-president level?
Then you definitely won't. Remember: If you think you can't, you probably
won't. Adopt the attitude of The Little Engine That Could -- "I think I can."
3. No task is too small to do well.
You never know when you are going to be noticed. That is one reason to
take pride in your work -- all of it. One public relations executive in Chicago
said that her first task in the PR department of a ballet company was
reorganizing the supply closet. She tackled the project with gusto and was
immediately noticed for her hard work and attention to detail. Remember
this the next time you feel like slacking because you are working on a
menial task.

4. Everyone is a potential key contact.


While you do need to be aggressive in the workplace, you can also go far
by being nice to those around you. Do you think it's unimportant to
establish a good rapport with your boss's secretary? Well, just try getting
your meeting squeezed onto the schedule when you really need it. Be
courteous to those around you -- you never know when your past contacts
will play a role in your future.

5. I was made to do this job... and the one above me.


If you spend your days feeling like you are not cut out to do the work you
are responsible for, your performance will suffer. Your job may not be the
perfect fit, but successful workers act like they are in their dream job, no
matter where they are.

6. It's not just what I know, but who I know.


Successful workers understand the importance of networking, both in and
out of the office. You need to proactively establish professional contacts.
Invite a colleague out to lunch. Go to the after-work happy hour. Join your
professional association. Do your part to establish a networking path for
your future.

7. What else can I do?


Since you are in charge of your destiny, it's your job to look for ways to
improve your professional self. Volunteer to take on an extra project. Learn
a new skill that will make you more marketable. Stay late to help your co-
workers. Successful workers don't just complete the job and sign out --
they look for additional ways to make their mark.

8. Failure will help pave the way to my success.


While it seems like some people never experience setbacks, the truth is
everyone fails from time to time. The difference between successful and
unsuccessful people is how they deal with failure. Those who find success
are the ones who learn from mistakes and move on.

9. I am my own biggest fan.


Have you been waiting for someone in the office to recognize your talents
and efforts? Maybe it's time you start tooting your own horn. Step up and
talk about your accomplishments and what you have done for the
company. Successful workers know how to point out their achievements
without sounding boastful.

10. My opportunity monitor is never turned off.


Yes, there will be days when you will want to just be happy with the status
quo. But remember that successful workers are always on the lookout for
opportunities to improve. Keep your eyes, ears and your mind open to new
opportunities -- you never know when you will discover the one that will
change the course of your career

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