Salespeople (the remarkably successful ones) build mental toughness (mental muscles) the same way they build physical muscles – exercise. Good habits (like cardio & lifting weights) will help you grow stronger. But, giving up the bad habits (eating too much, sitting on the couch, etc.) is key if you really want to make progress. It only takes one or two bad habits to hold you back from reaching your greatest potential.
In sales, recognizing your unhealthy habits is the first step in creating positive change. Here are 12 things Superstar Salespeople don’t do:
- They Don’t Compare Themselves with Other People
Whether you’re looking at Instagram photos of a celebrity’s vacation, or you’re hearing your friend talk about his latest raise, comparing yourself with others is tempting. But every minute you spend comparing your life with someone else’s life is 60 seconds you aren’t focusing on your goals.
- They Don’t Insist on Perfection
You know the expression, “Nobody’s Perfect” – it’s true. Perfectionism has a crazy & ironic twist – it causes you to experience such high levels of stress that your performance will actually become impaired. Establish high expectations for yourself, but don’t set the bar impossibly high.
- They Don’t See Vulnerability as a Weakness
Your game face definitely serves a purpose – it shows people you’re serious. But asking for help, acknowledging your weaknesses & admitting you don’t have all the answers aren’t signs of weakness. You’re real.
- They Don’t Let Self-Doubt Stop Them from Reaching Their Goals
Your brain will try to convince you that you’re not good enough, capable enough, or smart enough. But don’t believe everything you think. Your brain will underestimate you. You are a lot better than you think.
- They Don’t Overthink Everything
Rehashing the same things over & over again & worrying about everything that could go wrong wastes tons of time & mental energy. Not only that, it will take a toll on your psychological well-being. Commit to problem solving & productive action, rather than ruminating & overthinking. In short, be decisive.
- They Don’t Shy Away from Tough Challenges
Whether it’s a promotion to a leadership position or it’s an uncomfortable conversation you need to have with a friend, avoiding tough challenges will keep you stuck. Face your fears one small step at a time & you’ll gain confidence in yourself.
- They Don’t Fear Breaking the Rules
Many of us were taught the importance of being polite & well-mannered. That’s good. But it’s the rule-breakers who change the world.
- They Don’t Put Others Down to Lift Themselves Up
We all know people who get that good feeling by making you feel bad. Mean people. It may be tempting to try to elevate your own status by pointing out someone else’s flaws. But genuinely good people are the ones who really succeed in life.
- They Don’t Allow Others to Limit Their Potential
Whether someone told you that you’d never amount to anything, or you got turned down for a promotion, other people can limit your potential if you let them. Build the belief in yourself & you won’t let criticism or rejection stop you. Face it, some people want us to fail (secretly or not).
- They Don’t Blame Themselves When Bad Things Happen
While it’s important to accept personal responsibility when you make a mistake, toxic self-blame does more harm than good. Saying “I made a bad choice” is much more productive than thinking “I am a bad person.”.
- They Don’t Stay Silent
From business meetings to social gatherings, it’s ok to speak your mind. Do it properly (be humble).Speak up & find your authentic voice so you can be heard.
- They Don’t Fear Owning Their Success
Sometimes we are afraid of looking arrogant or too ambitious. Even when complimented, we tend to pass the credit onto someone else or give an immediate compliment back. Practice giving a simple “Thank you,” & own your achievements.
Build Your Mental Muscle. The good news is, everyone can build more mental muscle by changing the way they think, feel & behave. And the best way to grow mentally stronger is to work smarter – not just harder – by giving up the unhealthy habits that are holding you back.
