10 Traits That Set High Performers Apart—In Sport, Business, and Life
Written by CrossFit Milford Head-Coach Jason Leydon, CSCS
After over 20 years of coaching CrossFit Games athletes, military special operations, elite business leaders, and everyday individuals operating at an exceptional level, I’ve seen firsthand what separates the good from the truly great.
High performers move differently.
Not just physically—but mentally, emotionally, and behaviorally.
It’s not genetics. It’s not just raw talent or work ethic.
It’s a set of core high-performance traits that show up when it’s hard, when it’s quiet, and when it counts most.
If you’re serious about becoming the best version of yourself—in or out of the gym—this is the blueprint.
The 10 Defining Traits of High Performers
1. Relentless Self-Discipline
Discipline is the foundation of elite performance. High performers do the work even when they're tired, unmotivated, or stressed. They don’t negotiate with their standards—they uphold them.
2. Purpose-Driven Focus
Every elite performer has a deep “why.” Whether it’s legacy, self-mastery, or service to others, this purpose anchors them through setbacks and keeps them aligned with long-term goals.
3. Extreme Ownership
High performers don’t blame others—they take full accountability for outcomes. This mindset gives them power in every scenario because they own the process from start to finish.
4. Growth Mindset
The best expect failure—and use it as feedback. They lean into discomfort, embrace challenge, and view setbacks as stepping stones to the next level.
5. Intentionality in Every Action
From warm-ups to recovery routines, high performers act with purpose. No wasted effort, no mindless reps—just deliberate, high-value decisions.
6. Composure Under Pressure
When chaos hits, high performers don’t crumble—they stay calm, focused, and ready to execute. This mental composure is a competitive advantage.
7. Adaptability
Plans change. Life happens. High performers stay flexible and fluid without falling apart. They adjust without excuses and keep moving forward.
8. Long-Term Vision
Where others chase short-term wins, high performers zoom out. They’re patient, focused, and committed to the long game—never derailed by one bad day.
9. Coachability
The highest performers are also the most coachable. They crave honest feedback, ask better questions, and leave their ego at the door to keep growing.
10. Mental Resilience
They get knocked down—and get back up, every time. High performers develop true mental grit, built through adversity, action, and relentless forward motion.
These Traits Aren’t Inherited—They’re Built
The good news? You can build them too.
At CrossFit Milford, our Individual Design isn’t just about training your body—it’s about developing the character, systems, and behaviors that unlock high performance across the board.
If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and start operating at the level you know you're capable of, apply for Individual Design coaching today.
Let’s build your blueprint—rep by rep, choice by choice.