High Performance Habits by Brendon Burchard

Introduction:

What does it take to sustain high levels of success? In High Performance Habits, Brendon Burchard identifies six essential habits that drive exceptional achievement and sustained performance in both work and life. Through years of research and experience coaching high achievers, Burchard provides a framework for building and maintaining high performance, defined as “succeeding beyond standard norms consistently over the long term.” This guide highlights the habits, practical strategies, and mindsets that can help anyone achieve lasting success and fulfillment.

1. Seek Clarity

Burchard’s first habit emphasizes the need to seek clarity. High performers know who they are, what they want, and what will lead them to success. This habit isn’t just about having clear goals; it’s about understanding how these goals align with your values, strengths, and life vision. Clarity in goals, intentions, and relationships sets a foundation for all other habits.

• How to Implement: Reflect regularly on your purpose, identity, and goals. Ask questions like, “Who do I want to become?” and “What will matter most in the long run?” Write down your answers to deepen clarity.

• Pro-tip: Set “intention triggers” throughout your day to remind yourself of your goals and values. These can be as simple as a morning affirmation or a specific task reminder.

2. Generate Energy

Achieving high performance requires energy—both physical and mental. This habit emphasizes maintaining and building energy so you can approach each day with focus and stamina. High performers take care of their physical health and cultivate emotional resilience.

• How to Implement: Practice regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Additionally, find ways to recharge emotionally and mentally, such as through mindfulness, hobbies, or short breaks.

• Pro-tip: Burchard suggests taking regular breaks during the day to boost mental and emotional energy. Try the “20-minute rule”—every 90 minutes, take a short break to rest and recharge.

3. Raise Necessity

High performers feel a compelling need to succeed. This drive isn’t just a want; it’s a necessity that motivates action even when challenges arise. By attaching a personal or social obligation to their goals, high performers maintain a high level of accountability and persistence.

• How to Implement: Connect your goals to a deeper purpose, like family, community, or personal growth. Visualize the positive impact your success will have on those around you to create a sense of responsibility.

• Pro-tip: Ask yourself daily, “Who needs me to be on my A-game today?” Visualizing the impact on others can increase your sense of necessity.

4. Increase Productivity

Burchard’s fourth habit involves increasing productivity by focusing on outputs that matter. High performers prioritize their tasks, setting specific goals and actively working on their “needle movers”—tasks that yield the most impact.

• How to Implement: Start each week by identifying the key projects and tasks that align with your goals. Break larger goals into actionable steps and focus on completing them consistently.

• Pro-tip: Burchard advocates for a “block time” approach, where you schedule dedicated blocks of time to work on essential tasks. This method can help eliminate distractions and enhance focus.

5. Develop Influence

The fifth habit is developing influence, which is about inspiring others to believe in your ideas and vision. High performers build meaningful relationships, communicate their intentions clearly, and motivate others to support their goals.

• How to Implement: Work on building rapport and trust with others. Show genuine interest, listen actively, and communicate with empathy. Demonstrate respect and credibility to foster stronger, more supportive connections.

• Pro-tip: Practice “role modeling” by embodying the qualities you want to see in others. Influence isn’t about authority; it’s about setting a positive example.

6. Demonstrate Courage

The final habit, demonstrating courage, means taking bold action in the face of uncertainty, fear, or criticism. High performers understand that growth and success often involve risk and discomfort, but they press forward nonetheless.

• How to Implement: Start small by stepping outside your comfort zone daily. Practice being open to feedback, speaking up for your ideas, and pursuing challenging goals.

• Pro-tip: Remember, courage is a muscle—strengthening it requires regular use. Begin with smaller acts of courage, like voicing a new idea in a meeting, and gradually tackle bigger challenges.

Putting It All Together: High-Performance in Practice

Each of these habits is powerful on its own, but the true magic happens when they’re practiced together consistently. Here’s a framework for integrating these habits into your life:

1. Daily Reflection: Dedicate a few minutes each morning and evening to review your goals, intentions, and the impact of your actions.

2. Weekly Planning: Set aside time each week to prioritize tasks that align with your goals. Review your progress and make adjustments.

3. Self-Care: Make physical, mental, and emotional well-being a priority to sustain energy and motivation over the long term.

4. Accountability: Check in regularly with a friend, coach, or colleague to stay committed to your goals and high-performance habits.

The Science Behind High Performance

Research supports the importance of clarity, productivity, and energy in achieving lasting success. Burchard draws from studies showing that people with clear intentions and self-care routines are more likely to experience sustained focus, less stress, and higher satisfaction. Neuroscientists also highlight the role of habit formation in creating sustained success. These habits help to hardwire actions, transforming temporary changes into long-term results.

Real-Life Stories of High Performance

Throughout High Performance Habits, Burchard shares stories of individuals—from athletes to executives—who have transformed their lives by applying these habits. These examples demonstrate how clarity, energy, productivity, and courage can help anyone, regardless of background, achieve consistent success.

• Example: Burchard shares the story of an entrepreneur who redefined her approach to business and relationships by focusing on clarity and influence. This shift helped her not only to grow her business but also to create a more fulfilling life.

Overcoming Obstacles on the Path to High Performance

Burchard acknowledges that building high-performance habits isn’t always easy. People may struggle with lack of motivation, time constraints, or fear of failure. Here’s how to tackle these obstacles:

• Set Milestones: Break down each habit into manageable milestones, and celebrate small wins along the way. This can help maintain motivation and momentum.

• Be Patient: Habits take time to form, and setbacks are part of the journey. Burchard advises self-compassion and persistence as essential qualities for high performers.

• Surround Yourself with Support: High performers surround themselves with people who challenge and inspire them. Find a community, mentor, or friend who can support your journey.

Conclusion:

High Performance Habits is a practical guide for anyone looking to excel in work and life. Burchard’s six habits provide a powerful foundation, emphasizing clarity, energy, and courage as key drivers of success. By consistently practicing these habits, you can increase productivity, improve relationships, and find greater fulfillment in your pursuits.

Are you ready to elevate your performance? What one habit can you start practicing today?