The Hidden Mindset That Shapes Your Entire Life

Want the real secret to success?

Not the kind that sells in 30-second soundbites or flashy headlines.

I mean the real, gritty, behind-the-scenes truth that separates those who consistently win, whether in business, investing, parenting, sport, or life, from those who don’t.

Because here’s the thing...

Over my decades in business, property, and personal development, I’ve observed a common thread in people who succeed—not just once or twice, but again and again.

Whether they’re super successful property investors, business people or everyday Aussies building a better future for their families, they all share one invisible but incredibly powerful trait:

They operate with an Internal Locus of Control.

What does that mean?

Back in 1954, psychologist Julian Rotter coined the term Locus of Control—and it might just be the most underrated mindset filter you’ve never consciously used.

• Those with an External Locus of Control believe that life happens to them. They think outcomes are the result of luck, fate, the economy, the government, or “what other people did.”
• Those with an Internal Locus of Control believe that they make life happen. They accept that while they can’t control everything, they can control their actions, reactions, mindset, decisions, and energy.

Here’s the kicker: this isn’t just theory.

People with an Internal Locus of Control tend to be more successful, mentally resilient, and fulfilled.

They experience less stress, bounce back faster from setbacks, and get more done—because they believe they can.

And belief drives behaviour.

You’ve heard me say it before… become the pilot of your life not just a passenger going along for the ride!

When life gets messy… this mindset matters most

It’s easy to feel in control when the sun’s shining and the road is smooth.

But when life throws curveballs - when interest rates rise, deals fall over, tenants do a runner, or your kids get sick - it’s tempting to slip into external thinking:

“It’s not fair.”

“This always happens to me.”

“I can’t do anything about it.”

But this mindset gives away your power.

If you want to succeed - not just survive - you need to re-centre yourself with better questions:

• What’s within my control right now?
• What’s one small, positive action I can take?
• How would my future self handle this?
• What would I say to a friend who was in this situation?

Take back the wheel. Even if the road is bumpy.

Remember… you’re in the driver’s seat,  not the passenger seat.

Why this matters in property, wealth, and life

As I often say, building wealth through property isn’t a “get-rich-quick” game.

It’s about long-term thinking, resilience, and the ability to take personal responsibility -especially when it’s hard.

Markets change. Politicians make silly decisions. The media runs scare campaigns.

But those things are outside your control.

What’s inside your control is how you react:

• Whether you panic or pivot.
• Whether you freeze or act with clarity.
• Whether you blame the economy, or learn, adapt, and grow.

You don’t need perfect timing. You need personal ownership.

Final word

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: no one is coming to save you.

But here’s the empowering truth: you don’t need them to.

You are capable. You are resourceful. You are in control of your thoughts, your actions, your path.

Don’t wait for permission.
Don’t look for someone to rescue you.
Don’t outsource your future.

Take the wheel. Own the journey. And keep going.

About Michael Yardney Michael is the founder of Metropole Property Strategists who help their clients grow, protect and pass on their wealth through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. He's once again been voted Australia's leading property investment adviser and one of Australia's 50 most influential Thought Leaders. His opinions are regularly featured in the media.