Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Be-Do-Have: A Blueprint for Success
“Be All That You Can Be,” the United States Army’s recruiting slogan for over two decades (from 1980 to 2000), had a profound influence on me for many years. After a few rebrandings, the slogan made a comeback in 2023 as “Be All You Can Be.” This powerful slogan has always prompted me to reflect on my past and wonder how different my career choices might have been had my parents and I been aware of this concept in my formative years. How does one truly discover what one is capable of becoming? Everyone is born with a unique blend of innate personality traits, character strengths, and aptitudes. One way to gain insight into these attributes is through aptitude tests. Other valuable sources of self-awareness include feedback from parents, siblings, extended family members, neighbors, and friends, as well as one’s own lived experiences.
In my case, growing up in India during the 1950s, we were unaware of aptitude tests. So, when I secured admission to the highly competitive Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), I assumed that I had an aptitude for science and mathematics—and, by extension, for engineering. However, this assumption did not necessarily mean that engineering was the best career path for me.
While I performed well in engineering, I never quite fit the stereotypical image of an engineer. Engineers are often expected to be adept at fixing things, but that was never my strength. My abilities always leaned more toward theoretical concepts rather than hands-on work, and I never enjoyed working in a lab setting. Fortunately, this did not hinder my professional success because engineers are primarily expected to think analytically, logically, critically, and creatively—all of which I excelled at—while hands-on work is generally reserved for those engaged in research and experimental work.
Looking back, I realize that beyond engineering, my skills and interests could have led me to excel in various other fields, such as mathematics, statistics, accounting, economics, law, environmental science and public health. A well-structured and reliable aptitude test in 1962 might have provided deeper insights and helped me make a more informed career choice.
Whom do you want to be?
With this background in mind, I was truly excited when I first learned about the Be-Do-Have Model a few years ago. The Be-Do-Have model is a mindset framework that emphasizes that success is achieved by first identifying and being the kind of person you need to achieve your goal, then doing or taking the necessary actions, which ultimately leads to having desired outcomes. This philosophy is often misunderstood because many people adopt a Have-Do-Be approach—believing that if they first have the required resources, they will then be able to take action that will ultimately lead to success. However, this mindset often leads to frustration and stagnation. Instead, by focusing on being first, the young can develop the right habits and mindset that will inevitably lead to success.
Identity shapes behavior
The Be-Do-Have model is deeply rooted in psychology and philosophy. Studies on identity-based behavior change suggest that when people see themselves in a certain way, they are more likely to take actions that reinforce that identity. In his bestseller Atomic Habits, American author James Clear states, “The key to building lasting habits is focusing on creating a new identity first. Your current behaviors are simply a reflection of your current identity.”
The Self-Determination Theory, developed by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, posits that people are most motivated when their actions align with their identity. When young people believe, “I am a disciplined student,” they are more likely to develop study habits that reflect that belief.
Similarly, if someone adopts the mindset of “I am a leader,” they will naturally take on more responsibility, leading to opportunities that reinforce that identity.
The philosophy & science of Be-Do-Have
The quote “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit” is sometimes wrongly attributed to Aristotle. In reality, this phrase was paraphrased by historian and philosopher Will Durant in his 1926 book The Story of Philosophy, where he summarized Aristotle’s views on habit and virtue. This aligns perfectly with the Be-Do-Have Model: being a virtuous person leads to doing virtuous acts, which results in having a good life.The Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 3, Verse 35) reinforces the importance of following one’s own dharma (duty) rather than follow someone else’s actions.
Neuroscience reveals that repeated actions form neural pathways, making behaviors automatic over time. This process, known as self-directed neuroplasticity, proves that consistently acting in alignment with an identity rewires the brain to sustain that behavior.
How to apply the Be-Do-Have Model
1. Personal Growth and Habits
- Building Confidence: Instead of waiting to “have” confidence, embody confidence first. If you act confidently, you will eventually feel confident.
- Developing Discipline: A student who adopts the identity of “I am a focused learner” will find it easier to stick to a study schedule.
- Overcoming Procrastination: Shifting from “I need motivation to study” to “I am a disciplined person” leads to long-term consistency.
- Health and Fitness: People who view themselves as healthy and active are more likely to engage in regular exercise and eat well.
2. Business and Career Success
Successful leaders and entrepreneurs demonstrate the Be-Do-Have mindset:
- Elon Musk believed in a future of sustainable energy and space travel long before Tesla and SpaceX succeeded. His visionary mindset drove his relentless pursuit of innovation
- Oprah Winfrey embodied the qualities of an empathetic and insightful communicator early in her career, leading to her eventual media empire.
- Steve Jobs was a visionary artist in technology before Apple became a global success. His mindset shaped Apple’s innovation-driven culture.
3. Relationships and Social Life
- Friendships and Networking: People attract like-minded individuals. If you are a loyal and supportive friend, you will have loyal and supportive friendships.
- Dating and Relationships: Being confident, emotionally intelligent and authentic fosters fulfilling relationships.
- Leadership in Communities: Individuals who identify as problem-solvers take initiative and naturally earn leadership roles.
4. Financial Success
- Wealth Mindset: Instead of waiting to “have” money before managing finances well, adopting the mindset of a responsible investor ensures financial security.
- Smart Spending and Investing: People who see themselves as financially savvy take actions to save and invest wisely.
Case Studies of Be-Do-Have in Action
- Mahatma Gandhi embodied nonviolence and justice, leading India to independence.
- Nelson Mandela was a unifier before he became South Africa’s leader, shaping a post-apartheid era of reconciliation.
- Muhammad Ali declared himself “The Greatest” before he achieved boxing dominance, shaping his mindset for victory.
- J.K. Rowling saw herself as an author long before Harry Potter became a global success. Her persistence and belief in her craft ultimately led to her achievements.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- “Have-Do-Be” Mindset: Many young people believe they need external resources before taking action. Instead, they should start by embodying success-oriented traits.
- Lack of Discipline: Developing small, consistent habits aligned with identity reinforces discipline over time.
- Fear of Failure: Embracing a growth mindset allows individuals to see failure as part of progress.
- Seeking Immediate Results: Change is gradual; patience and consistency are key to long-term success.
The Be-Do-Have model provides a powerful framework for personal and professional growth. By first shaping identity, then taking aligned actions, individuals can achieve meaningful and lasting success. Rather than waiting for external validation or resources, young people should focus on cultivating their mindset and habits today. By embracing this principle, they can unlock the ability to create opportunities and shape their future.