How to Get to the Next Level: It’s 10% Skill, 90% Identity

Every business owner has one thing in common: they want to break through to the next level.

But what does it really take to make that leap?

Most people think it’s about skill, strategy, or the latest business hack.

And while those things matter, Patrick Bet-David shared insight with me during our weekly Mag 7 call...

Skill only 10% of the equation.

The real breakthrough comes from the other 90% is your identity.

What did he mean by that?

The 10%: Skill, Language, Knowledge

Yes, you need the tools of the trade. Mastering your craft, understanding market dynamics, and honing your communication are essential.

But if this was the whole story, everyone with access to a course or mentor would be at the top.

Skills can open doors, but they won’t give you the mindset to walk through them. That’s where identity comes in.

The 90%: Identity

Your identity is your belief system, your comfort with discomfort, and your ability to step into challenges most people avoid. Here’s what separates those who level up:

• Mindset: Are you overwhelmed or poised under pressure?

• Self-Belief: Are you betting on yourself? Do you believe you belong at the next level?

• Comfort with Discomfort: Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. To reach the next level, you have to get comfortable being uncomfortable.

When you embrace these qualities, the gap between where you are and where you want to be starts to shrink.

You begin to think, act, and lead like the person who already operates at that next level.

The Takeaway

The next level of success isn’t just about learning more—it’s about becoming more.

Focus less on adding skills to your toolkit and more on transforming your identity.

So, ask yourself:

• Who do I need to become to operate at the next level?

• What beliefs about myself need to change?

• Where can I intentionally step into discomfort this week?

Your next breakthrough isn’t a skill away—it’s an identity shift. Are you ready to step into it?

What are you doing to increase your identity in 2025?

If you are a business owner doing at least $5 million in revenue with a sales or executive team of 5+, consider joining PBD and 300 CEOs, Founders, and Leaders at Mar-a-Lago in April.

Click here or DM me SLS for details.

Thank you for reading!

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