Repeated, high-level success starts with a recognition that hard work pays off. They are incredibly curious and eager to learn. Repeated success is not about memorizing facts, it's about being able to take information and create, build, or apply it in new and important ways. They know lots of people, and they know lots of different kinds of people. They listen to friends, neighbors, co-workers and bartenders.
Successful people have a rolodex full of people who value their friendship and return their calls.
They are extraordinarily creative. They see new combinations, new possibilities, new opportunities and challenges where others see problems or limitations. They ask for advice, try things out, consult experts and amateurs, always looking for a better, faster, cheaper solution. They are self-reliant and take responsibility. Incredibly successful people don't worry about blame, and they don't waste time complaining.