Today, I attended a “Think Tank” conference on social media. Near the end of the event, one of the guest speakers was asked what he looked for in hiring someone.
He responded that his company will always hire the go-getter — the person who has a clear history of setting out to do something, giving it their all, and accomplishing it.
It struck me that the person he had described fit the profile of much more than merely a star employee. In all aspects of life — personal fulfillment, relationships, work, or fitness — it is the go-getters who will ultimately prevail.
So what makes a go-getter tick?
1. They have dreams and aspirations.
Ticking goals off of a list is meaningless if one is not enjoying the process. However, so long as one is appreciating one’s journey, goals and dreams can serve as lanterns upon the horizon, guiding us in a direction that is in line with our bliss, our souls. Go-getters have a guiding vision.
2. They show up every day
Even when they don’t feel the best. Even when it seems like a great day to skip out. Go-getters have to be disciplined. They put in time (even if it’s just a wee bit) each day to move closer to their long-term goals. They understand that mastery of any craft entails daily practice.
3. They count their victories
They don’t motivate themselves by focusing on some magical celebration at the end of the road. They pat themselves on the back each day for small achievements.
4. They do what they love
No one has ever realized greatness doing something that didn’t fire them up. Go-getters are passionate about what they do and are excited to work on something they care about.
5. They have support
They have solid mentorship and surround themselves with like-minded, ambitious people. They realize the importance of choosing friends carefully and seek out mutually encouraging relationships.
6. They are courageous
No space is available in the mind of a go-getter for timidity. They experience fear just like everyone else, but they learned a long time ago to do what they are afraid to do.
7. They possess an iron resolve
Quitting is never an option when the go-getter is pursuing something he or she really loves. Even on days when motivation runs low or pessimism creeps in, they put their heads down and get their hands dirty. They know the real work begins the first time you’re tempted to throw in the towel.
Bonus: They learn from their mistakes
Failure is the best form of feedback for the go-getter. The go-getter doesn’t fear mistakes. He or she knows mistakes are inevitable, so he welcomes them and learns as much as possible from each one.
Here’s the best part…
These qualities exemplify the go-getter. This person will go the distance in any undertaking and will not stop until they’ve accomplished something worthwhile. Ready to hear the greatest motivator?
Any of us can become a go-getter if we choose.
These characteristics are developed intentionally by the wise, not endowed upon a lucky few. Begin to push your boundaries on a daily basis and move slowly in the direction of your goals. Actively foster the habits of a go-getter in yourself, and you will surely find prosperity.
“Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings.”
― Salvador Dalí
What are your thoughts? Other traits of go-getters that I missed?
*Photo Credit: Anton Steiner (Creative Commons)
About Jordan Bates
Jordan Bates is a Lover of God, healer, mentor of leaders, writer, and music maker. The best way to keep up with his work is to join nearly 7,000 people who read his Substack newsletter.
I like this article Jordan, being a fellow go-getter which inspired me to launch my FB community a few months ago.
Sophia,
Awesome to hear that you enjoyed the article. I wrote this article over a year ago. It was one of the first on my blog, and I feel I’ve come a long way since then. I’m glad my earliest stuff still resonates. Thanks for the comment, and I hope to hear from you again.
I am amazed how accurate this is, I see that this serves as a sign, a reminder that I have much work to do. I am pleased to be reminded, of who I am, and going in the best possible direction as I embark on such a exciting and courageous time in my life!