Over the years I’ve learned that trusted professionals think very similarly.  They hold certain mind-sets if you will. 

Here are the seven we memorialize in the book.

1. Professionals Have a Bias for Results.

• The quality of their work speaks for itself.
• They exercise superb judgment.
• Accountability means advancing the ball, often in spite of adversity.

2. Professionals Realize (and Act Like) They’re Part of Something Bigger than Themselves.

• They commit to the success of their firm, organization, or client.
• They realize that success transcends their own parochial interests.
• They collaborate as an effective team member.

3. Professionals Know Things Get Better When They Get Better.

• They are emotionally invested; it’s more than just a job.
• They are always learning, ever vigilant, and thoroughly prepared.
• They are willing to advance a point of view and work toward what’s possible.

4. Professionals Have Personal Standards That Often Transcend Organizational Ones.

• They have personalized a set of core values.
• They do what’s right over what’s expedient by taking the long view.
• They avoid pointless drama. They rise above the fray. They stay focused.

5. Professionals Know Personal Integrity Is All They Have.

• Authenticity and honesty are paramount.
• They consistently deliver on their commitments, both explicit  and implicit.
• They refuse to violate the trust others have extended.

6. Professionals Aspire to Be Masters of Their Emotions, Not Enslaved by Them.

• They are respecting even when it’s difficult to be respectful.
• They maintain their objectivity and keep their wits about them.
• They manage their ego and resist the urge for immediate gratification.

7. Professionals Aspire to Reveal Value in Others.

• They readily extend trust to those who need it.
• They recognize the value other professionals bring to the table.
• They aspire to lift others through their demeanor and actions.