Five habits that distinguish successful entrepreneurs – young starters

by Samantha Holway, Vice President of Regional Sales and Business Development for North America at Herbalife

In my work supporting thousands of independent business owners and entrepreneurs across the country, I’ve seen a clear pattern emerge. Success doesn’t happen overnight; it is built through consistent habits that increase over time.

And as November marks National Entrepreneurship Month, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the day-to-day disciplines that drive business growth and long-term resilience.

Recent research A survey commissioned by Herbalife and reported by Talker News found that nearly one in three Americans now consider themselves entrepreneurs, including 36% of Generation Z and 39% of Millennials. Younger generations are approaching entrepreneurship with optimism, creativity and a desire for greater control over their future, reflecting how today’s workforce continues to evolve.

But optimism alone does not ensure a thriving business. The entrepreneurs who succeed, whether running large-scale businesses or managing side businesses, are the ones who turn big goals into everyday disciplines.

These are the habits I see time and time again in people who not only start strong, but stay strong.

1. Start every day with intention.

Successful entrepreneurs start their day with a goal. They plan their priorities before distractions take over.

Some of the most consistent leaders I work with start each morning by reviewing their goals and connecting with a few customers, partners, or colleagues. These simple steps build early momentum and set the tone for the rest of the day.

When you start with intention, every action, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. For example, write down your top three priorities before you open your laptop and say you want them done by noon.

2. Stay curious and keep learning.

The best entrepreneurs never stop learning. They are open to new skills, perspectives and ideas that help them grow personally and professionally.

In today’s rapidly changing environment, curiosity is essential. Whether it’s attending a training course, learning from a mentor or discovering new ways to serve customers, continuous learning will keep you flexible and confident.

When you approach every challenge with curiosity, even setbacks become opportunities for growth. Set aside 30 minutes each week to read, listen or learn something that strengthens your business.

3. Build lasting relationships.

Strong relationships are the foundation of every successful company. Great entrepreneurs lead with care, empathy and authenticity.

The most effective leaders I know spend time understanding their customers and teams. They listen, follow up and genuinely invest in people’s success. Over time, those individual connections grow into a community built on trust, support, and shared purpose. Successful entrepreneurs understand the power of community and how it can inspire growth, resilience and long-term success.

When you focus on connection before the transaction, you create loyalty that goes far beyond a single sale. This week, take a few minutes to reach out to three people, such as customers, partners, or colleagues, to check in and reconnect. A simple conversation can strengthen relationships and remind others that you are in their corner.

4. Stay consistent when the going gets tough.

Every entrepreneur faces challenges such as slow periods, self-doubt or changing goals. What sets successful people apart is that they keep showing up.

Consistency doesn’t mean working non-stop. It means keeping your commitments and staying focused, even when it’s uncomfortable. Over time, steady efforts build trust, credibility and results.

When the going gets tough, remember that progress often happens quietly, one day at a time. Track your weekly activities, including outreach, meetings or milestones, and focus on the efforts, not just the results.

5. Celebrate progress along the way.

Entrepreneurs are usually goal-oriented, but success is not just about reaching the finish line. It’s also about recognizing the growth that happens along the journey.

Taking a moment to celebrate small victories, like a productive week or a personal breakthrough, helps boost motivation and gratitude.

When you make progress visible, you remind yourself and your team that every step counts. At the end of each week, write down one victory and one lesson learned to solidify progress and perspective.

A new era of entrepreneurship

Today’s entrepreneurs are more diverse, tech-savvy and purpose-driven than ever before. They create their own opportunities and redefine what success looks like.

I’ve seen these same habits create lasting success for the entrepreneurs I work with every day. They prove that consistency, curiosity and connection are not just business strategies; they form the basis for long-term growth.

No matter where you are on your journey, success starts with showing up, continuous learning, and leading with purpose.

Samantha Holway is Vice President of Regional Sales and Business Development for North America at Herbalife. She leads initiatives that enable thousands of independent distributors to build thriving wellness businesses and foster stronger communities. With more than a decade of experience in sales leadership, training and business growth, Samantha is passionate about helping entrepreneurs develop the habits and skills that drive lasting success.

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