However, many creative professionals have the same traits you do. The key to achieving success is mental, reflected in one’s attitude and totally controlled by the individual.

How many times have we seen the underdog team or player win over the more talented opponent? The difference is often attitude.

It all starts with a passion for what you do Work should be fun. Your passion ...]]> Attitude over arrogance can put you in the right mindset and give you an edge over other creative professionals.

However, many creative professionals have the same traits you do. The key to achieving success is mental, reflected in one’s attitude and totally controlled by the individual.

How many times have we seen the underdog team or player win over the more talented opponent? The difference is often attitude.

It all starts with a passion for what you do
Work should be fun. Your passion and staying true to your values will help you overcome difficult moments and project an attitude that makes people want to work with you. Passion can’t be taught. When it wanes take some quiet time. Whether it’s an hour or a week, take an inventory of all the reasons you started your profession and why you like being in the creative field. That should renew your passion.

Be accountable
People have confidence and trust in people who are accountable. Individuals and customers want to work in a culture of integrity.

Be flexible, except with your core values.
It’s a given that your customer’s plans and strategies will change as time goes on. Flexibility for rapid change is an inherent advantage in today’s market. However, no matter the pressure, do not compromise on core values.

Risk is part of the game
Failure is an opportunity to learn. All things being equal, clients would rather invest someone who brings fresh thinking to the mix rather than someone who never tried.

Confidence
You need to believe in yourself and that you will be successful. This confidence is contagious with your peers, customers, stakeholders, suppliers, and everyone you deal with.

Keep your ego in check
Don’t think you are the gift to all companies who need your services. It is not about how great your ideas are but how successful you can make your clients. This also means hearing out new ideas no matter who they come from.

Accept criticism graciously
You need to constantly work on convincing your customers that it’s okay—even necessary—to state their honest opinions.

Maintain a strong work ethic
Your clients will follow your lead. It will also help you beat your competition.

Rebound quickly from setbacks
Life is full of surprises, learn from them and move on. You can’t change the past.

Step out of your comfort zone
You will feel uncomfortable in implementing change. To grow, you sometimes have to step out of your comfort zone.

Make timely decisions
It’s okay to use your intuition. Planning and thought are good. But procrastination leads to missed opportunities and the perception of not being responsive.

This blog post is based on the contents of the book Bootstrapping 101 by Bob Reiss. Reiss is an Army veteran and graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Business School. He has been involved in 16 startups and is a three-time INC 500 winner. He has been the subject of two Harvard case studies and is a frequent speaker at University Entrepreneurial classes.