Traits of “successful” people

Brian Kowald · Sep 27, 2025 · 25 replies

I’ve been observing the traits and habits of people I would consider successful. Not only with finances (that goes without saying here) but with life in general. Here are some traits I’ve noticed:

Get up early
Exercise regularly, eat right, sleep well
Have an active social life (friends , family, etc)
Follow a daily routines
Keep their minds engaged, whether it be some work in retirement, reading ,doing puzzles, etc.
Have good financial habits.

What are some traits or habits that you have, or that you have noticed.

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25 Comments

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Brian Kowald

1 year ago

Thanks for all the responses. What a great group.I think integrity and creativity are two I would add to my list.

Michael James

1 year ago

I think your list highlights the key habits really well. One more trait I often notice is consistency, where small daily actions compound into long-term success. Planning ahead also plays a big role, not just in finances or health but in everyday details, even things like using trusted options for smooth travel. Along with that, gratitude and adaptability seem to help people maintain balance and keep moving forward when life gets unpredictable.

canali

1 year ago

Reply to Michael James

good call….I also feel that the habit of consistency is a key fundamental.

Grant Clifford

1 year ago

I suggest the following traits (thinking about how I would advise my daughter in her career) some are duplicates from other comments below:

Integrity / Respectful – trumps everything else.
Embrace Challenges or Difficult Work – while there may be more opportunity for failure, there is also more opportunity to get noticed and advance your career and be successful.
Ability to Pivot – the ability to be self-critical, understand when your ideas may not be the best path or something isn’t working.
Is Committed and Dependable -speaks for itself
Has High Standards – hold yourself and others to high standards. Consistently produce quality and accurate work.
Takes Advantage of Luck/Good Fortune – sometimes you get lucky, run with it and work hard to make the most of those opportunities.

deusexmachina21

1 year ago

Fortune (Luck) favors the brave + the altruistic + the grateful.
Be a BAG (brave, altruistic, grateful).
If you are a bag, then thank your lucky stars.

Last edited 1 year ago by deusexmachina21