Here’s How Highly Successful People Make Little Choices Different From the Rest of Us

If enjoying a cocktail or two after work is a habit, take a minute to reflect on what you're actually doing while imbibing. Are you getting anything done? And how much time do you spend drinking? Try giving up booze for 30 days. Instead of engaging in this time-suck, how would your life be different if you took a long walk with your partner or dog, or tackled a big project you've been putting off?

Highly successful people are not afraid to fail because they know that when they do, they'll learn a lesson and get better. And they say "yes," even when doing so might be scary. In fact, experts believe that risk-takers climb the company ladder faster and are early adopters of technology. People who are risk-averse, however, often are viewed more negatively in the workplace. If you want to succeed, look for opportunities to stretch yourself and push your own boundaries.

People who have what psychologists call an "internal locus of control " attribute their success to their own hard work or abilities. They also are more successful in life. When you believe you alone are responsible for your circumstances, you'll make necessary changes in your life to achieve success. If you sit around blaming everyone else for your problems--an "external locus of control"--your situation will remain as it is. So, if you're in an unfulfilling relationship, end it. If you're in a job which makes you miserable, quit it. If you feel lonely, go make some friends . If you're unhappy about carrying too much weight, hire a trainer who can help you establish the right habits. You are the only one who can make your life better.