Unlock the secret to unparalleled success by delving into the intrinsic link between achievement, emotion, and success. In this blog, I explore this connection and its profound implications. My book, The Power of Emotion, takes a deep dive into these topics, offering insights into achievement drive and the critical realm of emotional intelligence, unveiling the transformative power within.
THE POWER OF EMOTION | CHAPTER 16 | SELF-MANAGEMENT
Achievement Drive Impacts Overall Success
Today, let's talk more about this drive to succeed, including the characteristics of high achievers, why some people have a higher achievement drive, and what it means to have an increased need to achieve. This superpower can take you to the next level to develop your full potential.
Characteristics of a Strong Drive to Succeed
Several characteristics drive your achievements. First, let's look at some of the common characteristics in people who fall under the category of high achievers:
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They tend to have high values.
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They strive for improvement and are continually raising the bar for themselves (daily)
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There's a strong desire to complete a task or project to the best of their ability.
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They year for accomplishment, mastering skills, and being in control.
Intrinsic motivation drives these personality traits. That is the persistent and constant concern with setting and meeting high achievement standards, all of which are essential factors on the road to success.
During this discussion, it's also important to touch on how a high drive to succeed can overlap with perfectionism. So, look at this next post to help you understand the downside of perfectionism.
Why Some People Have a Higher Achievement Drive
Now that you know a higher achievement drive is often linked to more success, you're probably wondering why some people have a higher drive to succeed than others in the first place.
To arrive at that answer, we must acknowledge the "why" behind the drive to succeed. If you understand the factors that can boost your drive to achieve, you can take control and use them to your advantage! The need for achievement is also known as N-Ach. It's a term first used by American psychologist Henry Murray and promoted by the late David McClelland, an American psychologist known for his work in human motivation.
McClelland found individuals with high N-Ach want to be recognized for their achievements. They enjoy challenging work that allows a significant amount of independence. What makes them this way? There are several catalysts for individuals having higher sources of N-Ach, including parents who encouraged independence in childhood.
Discover all nine catalysts in my second book, "The Power of Emotion." Grab your copy here!
Is Your Achievement Drive Set in Stone?
Let's say you read those catalysts of a high drive to achieve and realize most don't apply to you. Are you destined to have a low achievement drive? Absolutely not!
The good news is we can learn to increase our achievement drive! And, ultimately, our overall success, too. You can develop your journey to excellence by setting achievable goals and recording your accomplishments daily to track and measure your results. It's part of lifelong learning and the desire to reach for what you truly want in life.
Ten Strategies To Increase Achievement Drive
Here are ways you can increase your achievement drive:
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Set Clear Goals - Define specific, achievable goals for direction and purpose.
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Break it Down - Divide larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks for a sense of progress.
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Find Passion - Pursue activities that align with your interests to fuel intrinsic motivation.
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Visualize Success - Imagine achieving your goals to boost motivation and reinforce commitment.
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Stay Positive - Cultivate a positive mindset, focusing on strengths and solutions rather than obstacles.
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Surround Yourself - Seek inspiration from successful individuals, mentors, or supportive communities.
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Celebrate Milestones - Acknowledge and celebrate smaller achievements along the way.
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Adaptability - Be flexible in your approach, adjusting strategies when faced with challenges.
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Continuous Learning - Embrace a growth mindset and consistently seek learning opportunities.
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Self-Reflection - Regularly assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust strategies accordingly.
My new book, 'The Mindful Journal: Cultivating Emotional Intelligence through Reflective Writing,' is a valuable tool that supports self-reflection and will help you strengthen your achievement drive.
Does your mindset provide you with optimum results? Take a look at this post next to find out!
As you conclude this journey into understanding how your inner drive shapes ultimate success, consider delving deeper into actionable insights. In The Power of Emotion, discover tips to enhance your achievement drive, such as reflective practices on defining 'excellence.' Additionally, explore practical strategies for leveraging emotional intelligence for success and unlocking the full potential of your emotions.
This article was originally published on August 31, 2021, and has been updated (February 2024).
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