I was part of a panel discussion organized by the ever so energetic and dynamic Alysia Silberg on her Global FireSide Chat session and was inspired to write this article on how tiny personal habits can make you successful in your entrepreneurial journey and how you can be a good leader.

These are a blend of points came about during the discussions with other global leaders and some of my own thoughts, though all I subscribe to wholeheartedly.

1. KEEP YOURSELF FREE

This was one of the points that everyone on the panel agreed on fully. It is important to keep yourself free or your mind free. This helps you in planning on how to achieve your long terms goals.

While getting involved in operations is important, if your day is consumed by that, you lose focus on strategic and long term planning. One way to keep mentally clear is to engage in some sort of meditation. The more the better, but even 10 minutes a day is good.

2. ADAPT – CHANGE IS THE ONLY CONSTANT

The goalposts are constantly changing. If you’re not adapting it means you are getting left behind. Always have a vision of the future and lead the change.

3. BE DOMAIN EXPERTS

Know everything there is to know about your service offering. And more than that. When you walk up to a client or a potential client and are knowledgeable about your offering, it instils confidence. And be passionate about it. Clients or any stakeholders want to work with people like this.

4. CULTURE – BE KIND, HONEST AND INCLUSIVE

Another much agreed upon point by the group. Be kind when you deal with people that are part of your organization. Culture starts from the top and it’s the personalities of the founders/leaders that filter down into the company.

Happiness matters most, which translates into better work ethic too. Be kind, honest and inclusive. And thrive on and be happy for each others’ successes

5. DIFFERENTIATE, DIFFERENTIATE, DIFFERENTIATE

Always look to differentiate your offering with the rest of the market. It may be by coming out with some revolutionary idea, or just something small in an already crowded market space. It is these differentiating factors that will set you apart and gain you your niche in the market.

6. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GOOD PEOPLE

You will always hear great leaders saying that they hire people that are better than them. It’s not only about being better than you, but you have to know what you’re good at and what your weaknesses are. And develop a team that addresses all the needs and skills that your organization requires. Complementing each other is most important.