From Bill Gates to Steve Jobs, 2 powerful habits all high achievers share— And how you can use them too
While most people want to be successful in life, not many can do so. But why is it so? What are the things that most successful people are doing right that set them apart from the rest? Bestselling author-entrepreneur Tim Ferriss set out to discover what makes successful people tick, and that's when he spent over a decade interviewing some of the world's top performers.
From tech founders and elite athletes to mental health experts and billionaires, he uncovered two surprising habits that consistently showed up in most high achievers, which helped them succeed in life.
Talking about this, in a conversation with CNBC Make It, Ferriss explained how these two habits have helped countless high achievers stay focused, calm, and productive. It's something he's seen time and again through his popular podcast The Tim Ferriss Show, where he's spoken with everyone from Oprah to Ray Dalio.
So, what are these powerful habits, and how do they shape one's success? Read on to know more:
1. Meditation: A powerful workout for your mind
Ferriss says that around 70% of the top performers he's interviewed have some form of meditation or mindfulness routine. And it's not just sitting in silence. Meditation can include anything that helps clear the mind— and it includes journaling, walking, or swimming.
His personal favourite? Transcendental Meditation (TM)— a simple technique where you silently repeat a mantra for 20 minutes twice a day.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
오스템 임플란트 받아가세요
임플란터
더 알아보기
Undo
Big names like Oprah Winfrey, Lady Gaga, and even Ray Dalio swear by it.
Even
Bill Gates
, who once dismissed meditation as 'mystical,' now practices it for about 10 minutes a few times a week and says it helps him stay focused and sharp.
If traditional meditation feels hard, Ferriss suggests rhythmic activities like running, biking, or even swimming. These can serve as meditative moments that calm your thoughts and center your focus.
2. The power of saying 'No': The productivity superpower
While meditation helps calm the mind, saying 'no' helps guard your time.
Ferriss noticed that high achievers are incredibly intentional about what they say 'yes' to. He cites
Steve Jobs
, who once said, 'Focusing is about saying no.' It's not about being rude— it's about protecting your time, peace, and energy.
Warren Buffett agrees. He famously said, 'The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything.'
Ferriss believes that learning to say 'no' politely but firmly is one of the most powerful habits you can build in a world full of distractions.
How you can start practice these habits
You don't have to be a billionaire to use these strategies. Ferriss says anyone can benefit from them with small, consistent effort.
Try meditating for just 5 minutes a day to start. You can take the help of guided meditation videos online or even use certain apps for it. Once you get used to it, try increasing the duration gradually.
Practice gentle ways to say 'no', like:
- 'Let me think about it and get back to you.'
- 'Thanks for the invite, but I'll have to pass this time.'
The more you build these habits, the more clarity, energy, and focus you'll have for what truly matters.
In a noisy, always-on world, success often comes down to just two things: Quieting your mind and guarding your time. These aren't just habits of the wealthy— they're skills that anyone can learn and apply. And they just might be your edge in achieving more with less stress.
Diana's Brother Says 'No' To Prince Harry's 'Spencer' Plan; Sussex Stopped From Changing Name?
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
10 best small plants for your office desk
Adding small office desk plants to your workspace is a simple way to make it look better and feel healthier. Plants like Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, and Pothos help clean the air by removing harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and benzene. They also help reduce stress and boost productivity, just looking at plants for a few minutes can make you feel calmer and more focused. These plants are easy to care for and do well even in low light, making them perfect for busy professionals. A little greenery can go a long way in creating a peaceful and refreshing work environment Small and easy to care office desk plants including snake plant, peace lily, and others 1. Snake plant: Known for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in low light conditions. It's also great for busy people, as it can survive with infrequent watering. 2. Zamioculas plant: A low-maintenance plant that can tolerate neglect and low light. Its shiny leaves also add a touch of modern style to any office space. 3. Pothos: A versatile and adaptable plant that can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions. It's also easy to propagate and can be trained to climb or trail. 4. Spider plant: Excellent at removing common indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo It's also easy to care for and produces cute white flowers. 5. Succulents: These plants come in various shapes and sizes, requiring minimal care and adding a modern touch to your desk. They're perfect for people who tend to forget to water their plants. 6. Aloe vera: Known for its air-purifying qualities and soothing properties. It's also great for skin care, as the gel inside the leaves can be used to soothe burns and cuts. 7. Peace lily: Effective in removing pollutants and toxins from the air, while also adding a touch of elegance with its white flowers. It's also known to help reduce stress and anxiety. 8. Dracaena: A popular office plant that can thrive in low light conditions and requires minimal care. It's also known to grow quite tall, making it a great option for offices with high ceilings. 9. Philodendron: A versatile and adaptable plant that can grow in a variety of lighting conditions. It's also great for air purification and can be trained to climb or trail. 10. Bamboo palm: A compact and low-maintenance plant that can thrive in low light conditions. It's also known for its feathery leaves and ability to add a tropical touch to any office space.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
How to make your fur babies monsoon-proof
Trina Saha with her Lhasa Apso-Shih tzu mix, Rocky. She also has a Maltese named Cheeni Tick fever, fungal infections, soggy coats, restless pets — monsoon brings with it a storm of challenges for pet parents. In such a scenario, prevention is the buzzword. Groomers and vets recommend routines that prioritise hygiene, immunity, and indoor engagement. Here's how Kolkata's pet parents can easily keep their fur babies safe during the rainy season: "Monsoon means humidity, so I brush my fur babies to prevent knots around ears & paws. I keep the home clean, treating them like babies, as hygiene is key" – Trina Saha, actress Hygiene starts after every walk Monsoon strolls often end in slush. But rinsing your pet after every outing can do more harm than good. The new rule is to wipe, not wash. Paws, underbellies and tails should be cleaned with alcohol-free wipes and dried using microfibre towels. Many salons now include blow-dry sessions in their seasonal grooming packs, especially for thick or double-coated breeds. Ears, especially the floppy kind, need regular checks too, since moisture build-up can lead to infections. Using paw butter helps prevent cracked pads from prolonged dampness. "We never recommend washing a dog's paws with water every time they step out in the rain. Alcohol-free pet wipes are a gentler, safer way to keep the paws, underbelly, and tail area clean " – Attreyee Chatterjee, canine behaviourist and groomer Anindya Chatterjee with his English bulldog, Goda 'If my dog goes outside during the monsoon, I make sure to clean his paws thoroughly when he returns home, as any residue can cause fungal infections. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like WhatsApp features you probably missed google Learn More Undo Fleas and ticks are also a concern during this season, so regular grooming and consulting a vet are a must. Even for stray dogs, it's important to ensure they have proper shelter and food.' – Anindya Chatterjee, actor Tick trouble is rising — and prevention is the only way to win Tick and flea infestations spike during Kolkata's monsoon, thanks to the city's humidity, which creates ideal conditions for parasites to thrive. Once infected, pets, especially dogs, can contract tick fever – a condition that's often tricky to diagnose and can even be fatal if left untreated. This makes prevention non-negotiable. Vets are prescribing full-spectrum protection: monthly spot-on applications, oral meds, and anti-parasitic shampoos. Stray animals, common areas, and shared peeing spots can easily become transmission zones. Indoors matter too — immunity and engagement are key With fewer outdoor runs, pets, especially active breeds or young ones, can get under-stimulated, anxious, or restless. Indoor routines using puzzle toys, stair games, food mazes, or just extra bonding time, go a long way to reduce their anxiety. Some salons even organise play dates or brunch socials for pets and their humans. A fibre-rich diet also help pets stay resilient against seasonal infections. Water intake also needs attention, as it's important to monitor if your pet is drinking enough. Monsoon must-haves Tick and flea spot-ons or oral meds Anti-parasitic shampoos Dry shampoos Alcohol-free pet wipes Microfibre absorbent towels Paw butter Raincoats Professional blow-dry sessions Vet-prescribed immune boosters Puzzle toys and indoor play aids "Keep your pet's ears clean and dry, especially during the rains. Moisture and wax can easily lead to ear infections – more so if the pet has floppy ears" – Dr Reshmi Ghosh, veterinarian
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Horoscope Tomorrow, July 18, 2025: Your zodiac insights await
This week's astrological forecast suggests varied health and financial prospects for each zodiac sign. While some signs may experience improved health and financial stability through careful spending and strategic ventures, others might face challenges requiring patience and diligent effort. Family harmony and travel opportunities are highlighted for several signs, alongside the importance of social engagement and personal well-being. Aries Home remedies can help heal an old illness. As gains accumulate, the financial situation starts to improve. It's likely to be most fun to travel with pals. Your efforts will result in internal tranquility. Meeting someone you like will not be hindered by distance. Your social circle will be very interested in you for an occasion. Taurus Taking a vacation from your usual workout regimen will help you. By tightening belts and cutting corners, you can save a lot of money. You will feel so much relaxation and contentment when your home is peaceful and harmonious. Travelers can be guaranteed that their travel will be smooth. It is not justified to be socially inconsiderate of others. To perform successfully, you might need to be in good form, so pay attention. Gemini A close relative's health can improve quickly. Your fortune might soar with a successful venture. By following their instructions, you win the approval of your parents and other family elders. For those who are organizing a trip to an exotic location, there will be a lot of enthusiasm. Be more understanding and forgiving of people you don't like. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Discover Why These Off-Plan Dubai Apartments Sell Fast? Binghatti Developers FZE Read More Undo Avoid rigidity if you need to be a little sporty. Cancer Concerning yourself with your health needlessly can lead to illness! At this point, it will be crucial to conserve funds. Your prestige will probably increase if a family child performs well. On a long voyage, an excellent time is anticipated. Be yourself; you can't please everyone. You must take it leisurely in social situations and take a break from events and gatherings. Leo Weight Watchers will have to strictly monitor their food intake. It will be crucial to monitor your spending today. Spending quality time together will strengthen the bonds within the family. You might decide not to drive yourself if there is bad traffic. A little effort on your behalf will probably put you in the spotlight. You should go see someone you haven't seen in a while today. For some people, spending time in the comfort of their own home is recommended. Virgo Only optimistic thinking can lift some people out of depression. Cutting costs could be necessary to improve your financial situation. You have some positive domestic news to share. You're likely to get the outing and change of scenery you've been hoping for. You will be refreshed and rejuvenated by a change of scenery. At this point, you have a good chance of being well-known in society. Libra People who are sick could take longer to fully recover. Keeping household expenses to a minimal could be a challenging undertaking. You'll succeed in making the home atmosphere your own. You're likely to get invited on an enjoyable trip or adventure by someone close to you. It will be a pleasure to host someone who has always thought highly of you. You're likely to become famous because of someone close to you. Scorpio Your active lifestyle may require that your exercise plan be tailored to it. As you accumulate wealth from a variety of sources, you become more financially resilient. A family get-together is planned and should be fun. You might gain from a favorable circumstance during a social event. The secret to finishing the duties is to concentrate exclusively on the important things. Sagittarius Those in recovery will have to exercise a little more patience. At work, you'll probably be recognized right away for your multitasking skills. When you find your partner to be supportive, family life will be the most fulfilling. Some people are going to have the opportunity to go on an exciting outing. You'll be spending today trying to patch things up with someone you don't like. Capricorn It could take older people longer to fully recover. Refreshing old social contacts is a smart idea nowadays. You will be financially stable since you will be able to increase your earning capacity. You can organize a long-awaited family holiday. Travelers should anticipate a comfortable trip. You are likely to be drawn to and maintain mental tranquility through spiritual hobbies. Aquarius Those who wish to get back in shape might have to put in twice as much effort. Your efforts will probably result in an unpaid invoice. A family member will offer sound counsel on a work-related issue. Returning to the place you grew up in is recommended and will evoke happy memories. You can continue to lead in making the most of a social circumstance. Pisces Those with a medical issue are likely to find someone who is qualified. You will have enough money to fulfill your most cherished desires! Now is a wonderful moment to make some domestic changes. Long-distance travel is possible today. Your admirers will continue to raise your profile in society. You will probably relax and take in life's pleasures. This article is written by, Sidhharrth S Kumaar, Registered Pharmacist, Astro Numerologist, Life & Relationship Coach, Vaastu Expert, IKS Expert, I Ching Expert, Energy Healer, Music Therapist, Author of 'Think like a Sage Lead like a CEO' series and Chief Astro Strategy Officer (CASO), NumroVani. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
