9 signs someone will be successful later in life, even if they haven’t achieved much yet

Success isn’t always measured by what’s been achieved so far. Sometimes, it’s the subtle signs that signal someone’s potential for greatness.

You see, success is often a marathon, not a sprint. It’s not always about who crosses the finish line first, but who shows the determination, grit, and resilience to keep going, even without tangible results yet.

I’ve observed nine particular signs that suggest someone is on their way to success, even if they haven’t hit their stride just yet. Let’s delve into these indicators, and you might just find that you’re on your own path to success without even realizing it.

1) They have a growth mindset

Successful people aren’t born, they’re made. And often, it’s their mindset that sets them apart.

A growth mindset is a belief that skills and abilities can be developed over time. It’s the antithesis of a fixed mindset, where people believe their talents are innate gifts.

Those with a growth mindset see challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Failure isn’t a reflection of their worth, but a stepping stone on the journey to success.

These individuals may not have reached their full potential yet, but their willingness to learn and grow signals that they’re on the right track.

If you notice someone embracing challenges, learning from their mistakes and consistently striving to improve, that’s a pretty good sign they’re headed for success.

It’s never too late to cultivate a growth mindset in yourself too.

2) They’re not afraid to fail

I’ve met a lot of successful people over the years, and one thing they all share is an intimate relationship with failure.

Take my friend, for example. I’ve known him since we were kids, and he’s always been the ambitious type. He started his first business when we were in high school, selling handmade jewelry online. It failed spectacularly.

But do you know what he did next? He picked himself up, dusted off the disappointment, and started another venture. This time, he found a market gap in custom-made furniture. And guess what? He’s thriving now.

What I learned from him is that failure isn’t a dead-end street; it’s just a detour. Successful people see failure as an opportunity to learn and grow, not as a sign to stop trying.

3) They’re proactive

A reactive person waits for things to happen. A proactive person, on the other hand, makes things happen.

Being proactive means taking control of your life and actively pursuing your goals, rather than just responding to circumstances as they arise. It’s about taking the initiative and responsibility for your actions.

Proactive people are more likely to be successful in their careers because they’re better at identifying opportunities, networking with others, and generally more persistent when facing difficulties.

If you see someone who is always one step ahead, making plans and setting goals, they likely have what it takes to be successful in the long run. Being proactive is not just about being busy, it’s about being effective. And that’s a crucial trait of successful people.

4) They are adaptable

Life is unpredictable, and the ability to adapt to change is paramount to success.

In today’s rapidly changing world, those who can pivot and adjust their sails when the wind changes direction are the ones who ultimately win.

Consider the businesses that thrived during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many of them were able to do so because they quickly adapted their business models in response to the changing circumstances.

If you see someone who’s flexible, resilient, and open to change, don’t underestimate them. They might not have achieved much yet, but their adaptability speaks volumes about their potential for success in the long run.

5) They practice patience

In our fast-paced world, patience may seem like a lost virtue. But in reality, it’s a key ingredient to long-term success.

Patience is about understanding that good things take time. It’s about resisting the urge for instant gratification and focusing on the bigger picture.

Look at any successful person and you’ll find that they didn’t get where they are overnight. It took time, persistence, and a whole lot of patience.

When you see someone who’s willing to wait for their seed to sprout, who understands that success is a journey and not a sprint, it’s a good sign they’re on their way to achieving great things.

6) They are empathetic

Success isn’t just about personal achievements. It’s also about the positive impact we make on others.

I’ve found that those who truly succeed in life, in a way that is fulfilling and meaningful, are those who understand and share the feelings of others. They have a deep sense of empathy.

Empathy allows us to build strong relationships, to inspire and motivate others, and to show compassion. These are all crucial elements in many paths to success.

When you see someone who takes the time to listen, to understand, and to help others, know that they’re building a foundation for success that goes beyond material wealth. Their empathetic nature might not be visible on a resume, but it’s invaluable in the real world.

7) They’re constantly learning

I’ve always been a bit of a bookworm. Growing up, I’d spend hours lost in books, soaking up knowledge about everything from ancient civilizations to the wonders of space. And while my thirst for knowledge was occasionally met with teasing, it’s something I’ve carried with me into adulthood.

In this ever-changing world, continuous learning is key. The most successful people I know are those who never stop learning. They read, they take courses, they seek out mentors. They’re always looking to expand their knowledge and skills.

If you notice someone who’s always asking questions, diving into books or taking on new courses, don’t dismiss them just because they haven’t achieved much yet. Their drive to learn is likely to carry them far.

8) They have a clear vision

A clear vision is like a roadmap to success. It provides direction and helps to maintain focus on the end goal, even when the journey gets tough.

Successful people know where they want to go. They have a clear picture of what they want to achieve and they’re not afraid to chase after it.

Having a vision is more than just wishful thinking. It’s about knowing what you want, believing in your ability to get there, and committing to the journey.

If you see someone who seems to have a clear direction in life, even if they’re just starting out, take note. They might not be there yet, but with their vision as their guide, they’re already on the path to success.

9) They are persistent

The road to success is often long and full of obstacles. What separates those who succeed from those who don’t is persistence.

Persistence is about staying the course, even when it’s tough. It’s about facing setbacks and not giving up. It’s about believing in yourself and your dreams, no matter what.

Never underestimate the power of persistence. It can turn failures into successes, dreams into realities, and the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Closing thoughts: Success isn’t always where you expect it

The journey to success is often a winding road, filled with unexpected detours and hidden pathways. It’s not always about the flashy achievements or the overtly successful.

Sometimes, success is quietly brewing beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to bloom. It’s visible in the small things; the unwavering determination, the constant learning, the empathy shown towards others.

Albert Einstein once said, “Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.” These signs we’ve discussed are indicators of value, of potential, and of an attitude that can lead to success.

So next time you see someone who hasn’t achieved much yet, look a little closer. The signs of future success might just be there, quietly coming into their own.