1. They make it their duty to be resilient. They are simply willing to do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to achieve their desired outcome. Successful entrepreneurs don’t dawdle or get bogged down in everyday problems. They realize on a deep level that a powerful, successful, and fulfilling life isn’t handed to you. It is created. And they are willing to do whatever it takes to create that life.

2. Unwavering focus is the norm for them. Focus fosters awareness, attention, and intelligent actions that increase the likelihood of achieving desired results. Being in their presence is like being in the presence of a laser. While some may feel intimidated, many others want “what this person has.” They are simply too remarkable to ignore.

3. When they speak, people listen. They speak powerfully about themselves and others. When they speak, it makes a difference. It sets things in motion. Their actions are consistent with what they say.

4. They listen intently and with purpose. When people interact with these entrepreneurs, they feel—often for the first time in their lives—that they are truly being heard. There is a deliberate commitment that ensures what the speaker says actually happens. The entrepreneurs listen to both what is said and what is left unsaid. They listen to what lies behind the spoken words. This allows them to get to the heart of the matter quickly, rather than going around in circles.

5. A strong sense of self-awareness seems to be ever-present. They feel at ease. Their focus never seems to waver and is always directed toward whatever they are dealing with or whoever they are speaking to. Their attention is hardly, if at all, focused on themselves, except in terms of how they should conduct themselves in that moment. They are simply in the moment, doing what they are doing, without a host of internal processes distracting them.

6. Their relationships with others are characterized by compassion. They do not hesitate when asked for honest feedback. The entrepreneurs view this as one of the kindest and most caring acts there is, because it often interrupts unproductive and unconscious behaviors and actions. Without such an interruption, these would lead to undesirable outcomes in the future. Others are not viewed or treated as victims, but as powerful individuals who occasionally need a new perspective to see something they currently cannot see, because their attention is focused elsewhere.

7. For the successful entrepreneur, commitment is very black and white. Just like a light switch, you’re either on or off. They understand that in life, you can only produce results or excuses. And that excuses are never valid, no matter what they are.

8. In business strategies, plans, and tactics, the emphasis is squarely on practicality. No attention is paid to implausible theories. While risks are always taken in a sensible manner, this remains at the level of “sensible” and does not drift into a fantasy world. Corrections and actions that drive the company forward are constantly implemented. They work with facts and learn from setbacks, but do not get bogged down in them.

9. In the world of the successful entrepreneur, there is no such thing as standing still. They realize that in this universe, there is only expansion or contraction; and this law applies to their own lives as well. Just as you can’t train once and for all, they understand that they are only as good as their last performance. Because of this, they never rest on their laurels. Always seeking the next “edge” is often a common trait.

10. They realize that tolerating unwanted circumstances or situations is not the same as accepting them. Common childish behaviors in adults, such as drama, insincerity, and deceptive communication, are confronted without hesitation. As a result, little time is wasted on superficial relationships and babysitting adults.

11. Effective entrepreneurs say what they mean and mean what they say. Their actions demonstrate a strong sense of integrity. They keep their word and take responsibility for achieving the goals they have set for themselves.

12. Successful entrepreneurs are characterized by their constant refinement of their skills and expansion of their expertise. They often insist on surrounding themselves with the best consultants and mentors, regardless of the cost or time commitment. They are smart enough to know that no one is going to save them, so they take responsibility for creating a highly committed life for themselves. They move through life at high speed, achieving goals in ever-shorter time frames. Wherever they go, they leave an impact and create their own happiness.

13. They are honest, direct, and to the point in their interactions with others. They have strong, committed relationships—with their business associates, their family members, and the other people they choose to surround themselves with. Successful entrepreneurs are committed to their relationships, and their relationships, in turn, are also incredibly supportive. For this reason, untrustworthy people often feel very uncomfortable around them and leave as soon as they see an opportunity to do so.

Successful entrepreneurs are so effective precisely because they build strong relationships with others. They know that strong relationships are essential to a fulfilling life. Download our white paper for practical worksheets on how to strengthen your five most important relationships.