The older I get, the smarter my father becomes. Over the past 20 years these are just a few of the things I have learned from my Dad. I believe these are mandatory for any manager to be successful, whatever their field.

1. Has Written Goals:

Specific

Clear
Realistic/attainable
Measurable
Compelling

2.  Follows Written Goals Plan:

Knows what must be done and why
Has developed action plans
Follows action plan
Has determined possible obstacles
Has a plan to deal with the obstacles

3.  Has Positive Attitude:

About self
About company
About learning
About growing

4. Takes Responsibility:

Don’t blame others
Knows the only things they can control are their own activity and behavior
Doesn't play psychological games
Learns from mistake

Accepts challenges
Doesn't rationalize

5.  Strong Self Confidence:

High self image
Is not effected by what others think
Understands that getting a "no" is a good thing (sometimes)
Doesn't take a "no" as failure
Learns from each behavior they perform
Realizes that there is a lot to learn and it's ok not to be perfect

7.  Controls Emotions:

Knows when not to take things personally
Knows what to say or do at the appropriate time
Doesn't become excitable
Doesn't strategize "on the fly"
Stays in the moment
Doesn't over analyze

8.  Establishes Good Communication & Rapport:

Listens more than they talk
Deals with problems up-front
Displays sincerity, trust, believability, warmth, and trust

9. Commitment - Does What It Takes for Success

 Is a winner
 Is willing to risk
 Will put themselves in "high risk" situations
 Unconditional even if: afraid or uncomfortable

Okay, now what?

·        Pick your biggest weakness and deal with it.

·        Unpack your head trash.

·        Develop an action plan to start improving.

·        Stop making excuses and just do it!