High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way

by Brendon Burchard

To reach high performance, you have to consider more than your individual passions and efforts, and you’ll have to go well beyond what you like, prefer, or naturally do well, because, to be frank, the world cares less about your strengths and personality than about your service and meaningful contributions to others.

I realized I didn’t want to take my life; I wanted to live. My heart had been broken, yes, but I still wanted to love. I felt I was given a second chance, so I wanted to make it matter, to make a difference. Live. Love. Matter. That became my mantra. That’s when I decided to change. That’s when I started looking for answers to live a more charged, connected, and contributing life.

We must see beyond what comes naturally to us, and develop into what we must be in order to grow, serve, and lead.

When you knock on the door of opportunity, do not be surprised that it is Work who answers.

“Don’t bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself.” —William Faulkner

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” —Jim Rohn

Seek clarity on who you want to be, how you want to interact with others, what you want, and what will bring you the greatest meaning.

Demonstrate courage by expressing your ideas, taking bold action, and standing up for yourself and others, even in the face of fear, uncertainty, threat, or changing conditions. Courage is not an occasional act, but a trait of choice and will.