Richard Branson has proven that anything is possible with the power of a strong mindset. With more than 300 businesses under his belt, Branson teaches business owners to take action with passion without overthinking it.
These four mindset shifts will help you bridge the gap between dreams and success.
1. Surround yourself with high achievers.
The most successful people understand the importance of surrounding themselves with people they strive to be like. When Branson was struggling to get Virgin Atlantic off the ground, he leaned heavily on his mentor, Sir Freddie Laker, who had been successful at launching his own airline. Branson is famously quoted as saying “surround yourself with people that are smarter than you, give them everything they need to grow, and your business will thrive.”
Having a peer group, coach or someone you look up to will show you what’s possible helping you turn goals into moving targets. Their knowledge, guidance and impact are invaluable.
2. Cultivate a ‘larger than life’ appetite.
When you stay focused on a dream, opportunities will present themselves. It’s up to you whether or not you take them. Branson didn’t have the background or experience for any of the businesses he started. All he had were his larger than life goals that fueled him to keep going.
Setting big, seemingly impossible, goals force you to work harder, stay hungry and stretch your potential. Your ability to stay focused will help you to achieve more creativity and innovation. Those initial big picture goals will only continue to grow as you continue to achieve each milestone and realise what you are capable of.
3. Live a life of adventure
Branson didn’t intend on becoming a serial entrepreneur. It happened because of his curiosity and interest to learn more. Branson has always stuck by one core belief – don’t go into business with the primary intention of making money. Do it because you are passionate, curious and interested in something new.
Success comes when passion is pursued and achieved. Focus on one thing you’re good at, and do it really well.
4. Choose messy action over perfectionism.
With no business degree Branson started various businesses in different industries. He could’ve easily let his dyslexia hold him back from launching his magazine, but he didn’t. Instead, he used it to his advantage and adapted his leadership style to it.
If you have the passion and drive for what you do, take the leap, and figure it out along the way. People believe they need the certifications, the perfect strategy and every decision written out in detail when all they really need is to take action
