One pattern I’ve found with successful entrepreneurs is the internal motivation to continually invest in personal improvement. There’s this innate desire to keep getting better, both in life and in work.
Here are some of the more popular personal improvement things I see entrepreneurs doing:
- Public speaking practice by joining Toastmasters International
- Peer experience sharing and learning through EO and YPO
- Exercise and sports (running, working out, hiking, biking, and golf are popular)
- Reading books and blogs on a regular basis
The next time you talk to an entrepreneur, ask about personal improvement initiatives and see what they’re working on — it just might surprise you.
What else? What are your thoughts on the idea that successful entrepreneurs are continually investing in personal improvement?
David Cummings on Startups 
Totally agree. I know for myself and others that I surround myself with can not take in information fast enough. We are always craving ways to get better.
I agree David. I also think entrepreneurs often look at ways to improve not only themselves, but to make societal contribution(s) & to make this world a better place whenever possible.
“What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” Marshall Goldsmith
Good call. Constant improvement and reinvention is key.
I have three out of four! I look forward to learning more about YPO and EO, as I have not heard of them locally but will look into them. I am a member of Toastmasters International, which I recommend to EVERYONE who communicates. I belong to two clubs and enjoy every moment I grow with them. I recently took up exercising, figuring I should finally give myself time to take care of me so I can see my business grow for many years to come – and be around to pass it down to my successor. And reading – well, as a writer, that’s kind of a given! 🙂 Great post!!
I would definitely second the idea of surrounding oneself with people who push you to grow, challenge you to think differently (bigger and better), and call your bluffs. The Atlanta Global Shapers are a group that’s done the same for me. I’ve also found that successful entrepreneurs/professionals seek out mentors, coaches, and mastermind groups to continuously have access to new perspectives. Thanks for sharing this perspective — enjoyed it.
You couldn’t have put it a better way. I would also like to add that entrepreneurs are improving themselves by learning leadership; ways to understand people, and positively influencing those around them and adding value to them. Relationships are important to business and you definitely cannot gain success without a mutually beneficial relationship whether its with a spouse, friend, or business partner.
Great post. My new favorite personal improvement strategy is listening to Podcasts.