🌟Willingness: A Universal Wisdom for Top Performers in Business and Life🌟

When it comes to achieving excellence, I have seen “Willingness” stand out as a universal wisdom that transcends both professional success and personal growth. Whether navigating the corporate world or pursuing your passions, this trait plays a pivotal role. 

Here is what Top Performers show us:

1. Adaptability and Learning ✅

Top performers willingly embrace change. They recognize that the world is dynamic, and staying relevant requires continuous learning. 

One of my clients made huge progress in a major negotiation this week after exploring new ways to share their value resulting in unprecedented results.  “This never happed before” didn’t stand in the way of them being willing to try something different.  During our weekly calls they stay curious and nimble.  

Whether it's mastering a new skill, adapting to market shifts, or understanding emerging technologies, their openness sets them apart. A willingness to learn ensures they remain agile and resilient.

2. Initiative and Proactivity ✅

High achievers don't wait for instructions; they take the initiative. 

Yesterday during a call with global leaders from many countries, those leaders who took the initiative stood out.  Their willingness to step up, propose solutions, and drive projects forward fueled the conversation for future success in different countries.  

Whether it's launching a startup, leading a team, or spearheading innovation, proactive mindset creates momentum. 

3. Collaboration and Teamwork ✅

Willingness to collaborate creates synergy and helps you go far.

I loved it when an NFL alumni and their spouse said to me this week:   Let’s do this together! We’ll go further this way!

Top performers know that individual brilliance pales in comparison to collective effort. They actively contribute to team dynamics, share knowledge, and celebrate shared victories. Their willingness to listen, empathize, and work harmoniously fosters a positive work environment.

4. Resilience and Growth Mindset ✅

Top performers are always willing to learn and better themselves. 

One of my clients had a major loss this year.  I knew I wanted to work with them when I saw their ability to stay focused and their willing to persevere. Their growth mindset allows them to learn from set backs, adapt, and bounce back stronger. Whether it's a missed deal, a rejected proposal, or a project gone awry, their willingness to persist fuels their resilience. They view challenges as stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.

5. Sacrificing Personal Accolades for a Higher Cause ✅

Here’s an extraordinary example of willingness, this comes from Vice Admiral Raquel Bono, of whom I wrote in my book.  In the middle of battle a soldier was wounded and she was asked to operate to save his life.  Her knee jerk reaction was: “what? In the middle of battle?” And within seconds she told herself: “ but this is why I joined the Navy, to save lives.”  She immediately operated and saved this soldier’s life.  

Admiral Bono’s willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for a higher purpose, inspires us all.  Her career reached the top when she was made responsible for all armed forces health care facilities for the US around the world. 🌎 

Willingness isn't just about saying "yes." It's about embracing opportunities, learning, and contributing to something greater than us. Whether you're building a team, launching a venture, or striving for personal growth, this is  wisdom worth prioritizing. 🌟

Who else do YOU admire for their willingness and performance? Share your thoughts and ping them below! 👇😊

#Leadership #negotiation #willingness #positiveattitude #higherpurpose #Values