Your choice to live as a leader or as a follower begins with your attitude. We have all met successful professionals who carry themselves with confidence and grace and wonder what it is they are doing right. Here are a few things leading CEO’s have shared with us to help you get on the path to success.

1. Leaders don’t allow boredom to enter dead space

When a meeting gets canceled, we are easily excited about the prospect of a little extra time on Instagram. A CEO uses his extra time to catch up on emails, or calls. Leaders maximize their time and are always on the lookout for new opportunities and experiences.

2. Leaders don’t lose sight of their goals

It is impossible to please everybody, and that’s something that leaders understand. Understanding that their goals will always evolve and change throughout time, they know how to evaluate what works and what doesn’t. Leaders recognize that part of growth is flexibility and change. They welcome input from others but ultimately make up their mind.

3. Leaders don’t thrive on drama

Leaders don’t get bogged down by gossip, rumors, toxic people, or environments. They won’t be part of office drama, and they expect their employees to uphold the same maturity.

4. Leaders don’t rely on other’s approval

Leaders work towards their definitions of achievement, not society’s. There will always be someone richer, more attractive, faster, smarter- you are your own standard.

5. Leaders don’t ignore employee's strengths

A leader remembers the people who work for them are bright individuals who will be champions if they are acknowledged and rewarded. A leader knows the value of a strong relationship and does what is necessary to keep their employees happy and motivated.

6. Leaders Don’t neglect self-care

You can’t do your job if you’re sick or tired or preoccupied. Leaders make their own health a priority, even if that means less time for work. They know when they turn their attention to their professional life, they are better equipped to perform.

7. Leaders don’t think they have all the answers

CEO’s hire talented, driven people who are great at their jobs, then get out of their way. They understand they have strengths but acknowledge that they cannot do it all. They need help. Leaders don’t take everything upon themselves. That’s unsustainable, and they’d rather focus their talents where they can make the biggest impact.

8. Leaders don’t look back too often

The past is far away and gone. It does nobody any good to obsess and use your energy for worthless employment. Do what you can to fix the situation and move on. Mistakes lead to great lessons.

9. Leaders don’t trample over boundaries

Great leaders can be tough bosses, they demand excellence and push their time to perform efficiently. But they also need to have respect for the people working for them. Nobody works well when they are working ‘round the clock. They expect their employees to take care of themselves and know not to burn the candle at both ends.