When you look at people who are genuinely fulfilled, by their own definition, it’s easy to assume they figured something out early.

But in reality, they made a series of intentional choices about who they are, what they value, and how they want to live.

Here are three things I consistently see successful people do differently.

They set high standards, and they keep them.

Most people lower their standards when life gets uncomfortable. High-performing, fulfilled people decide where the bar is, and they keep it there. When your standards are clear and non-negotiable, a lot of frustration disappears. 

They define exactly who they are.

Clarity around what matters changes everything. When you’re intentional about what’s important to you and what you value, decisions get easier and distractions lose their pull. Defining who you are creates alignment between your choices and the life you want to live.

They start with a vision and work backwards.

A clear vision gives direction to daily life. From that vision, goals, habits, and priorities fall into place. Time and energy get spent with purpose, and progress becomes measurable. Working backwards keeps effort focused and momentum moving in the right direction.

I talk more about this mindset, including the exact steps to design a life of fulfillment, in a new video I just released.

If you want to raise the standards you have for your life and be more intentional about where you’re going, this is a great place to start.