Tip of the Week: Success Traits & How to Make It Big In America

7 Success Traits From Brian Buffini’s Newest Book

Brian Buffini emigrated from Ireland at the age of 19 with $92 in his pocket. Today, as the founder of Buffini & Company, the largest business training company in North America, he is one of the nation’s top business experts. In his forthcoming book, “The Emigrant Edge: How to Make It Big in America,” Buffini shares the secret to his success: a mix of seven qualities that make up the ‘Emigrant Edge.’

1. A Voracious Openness to Learn

People who flourish enjoy new experiences. Be aware of what you “feed your brain.” Limit trash TV and social media; pursue professional development and find partners and mentors who will hold you accountable.

2. A Do-Whatever-It-Takes Mindset

“Successful immigrants are willing to get out of their comfort zones, take risks, and make difficult decisions,” Buffini writes. Develop a solid action plan based on a set of written goals to get you where you want to go.

3. A Willingness to Outwork Others

An up-at-dawn, down-at-dusk mentality is critical, writes Buffini. Outworking others also means having the discipline to be consistent in dealings with customers and clients, and the ambition to become exceptional—wowing others by going above and beyond.

4. A Heartfelt Spirit of Gratitude

Concentrating on what you have, instead of what you lack, colors everything you do. “Gratitude is transformational,” Buffini writes. “It has the power to change your focus from eternal pessimism to all that’s great and possible.”

5. A Boldness to Invest

“Great immigrants don’t just play with one chip or two; they put in everything they have,” writes Buffini. This means investing in themselves, in their vocation, and in other people.

6. A Commitment to Delay Gratification

Worthwhile accomplishments require time, and successful immigrants think long term. Delayed gratification is the discipline required to ultimately have your goals and dreams come to pass, Buffini writes.

7. An Appreciation of Where They Came From

“Remembering where you came from gives you perspective, reminds you to be grateful, and keeps you humble,” writes Buffini. This means more than knowing your family’s history, as well as your own. Keep a journal to track your thoughts and activities, get to know yourself better, and be able to appreciate your own progress.

“Successful immigrants think and work differently than the average American,” writes Buffini. “When they leave everything behind, they keep their dream of success uppermost in their mind. Imitating these traits will equip anyone to thrive and succeed.”