The 13 Habits of Self-Made Millionaires

By Tyler Flynn

Becoming an effective entrepreneur extends beyond possessing a keen business acumen or understanding entrepreneurial concepts; success is also determined by positive habits. And the most effective way to develop these “rich habits” is to learn from those who have already achieved success.

Thomas Corley, the author of “Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals” recently wrote an article detailing the habits of self-made millionaires. Here are 13 steps you can take to improve yourself today:

1. Read like the Wind

Entrepreneurs are constantly seeking to educate themselves, and spend a minimum of 30 minutes or more each day reading books that will expand their knowledge, specifically the genres of biographies, self-help and history.

2. Move Your Body

Successful people spend 30 minutes or more per day participating in aerobic exercise to maintain their health and stimulate their minds.

3. Connect with Like-Minded People

In keeping with the concept of “you’re defined by the company you keep,” self-made millionaires flock to individuals who are detail-oriented and enthusiastic about the future, forming a positive support group.

4. Do What You Love

Following your dreams can eventually turn into financial windfall. Rich individuals pursue their passions and create their own goals. They also exhibit persistence to overcome mistakes and rejection.

5. Early to Bed, Early to Rise

Following Ben Franklin’s age-old maxim, the majority of millionaires wake up at least three hours before their workday begins to tackle their tasks without any interruptions.

6. Diversify You Portfolio

Following the concept of “don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” the majority of millionaires have more than one income stream to support themselves, and are involved in a myriad of industries.

7. Get a Mentor

Successful people actively seek out those with more business experience than themselves to gain advice and learn life lessons.

8. Always Look on the Bright Side of Life

Positivity is a hallmark trait of those who achieve long-term success.

9. Don’t Follow the Herd

Successful people chart their own path rather than following the formula. Through their innovation, they’re able to attract new people to follow their own ideas.

10. They Have Good Etiquette

Self-made millionaires have perfected their social graces and know how to ingratiate themselves with people. Items in their skill set include sending thank-you notes, acknowledging important life events, using table manners, etc.

11. They Contribute to Others’ Success

Self-made millionaires love assisting others in their pursuit of success. This serves the dual purpose of millionaires maintaining their own positivity and developing their network.

12. Flex Your Brain Muscles

The rich devote 15 minutes per day to just thinking; this time of isolation is used for brainstorming new ideas and reviewing their current situation.

13. Seek Feedback

The fear of criticism shouldn’t be a barrier to success. Self-made millionaires seek out constructive feedback to keep them on the right track.