In this day and age, people seem to want success without really understanding the work, dedication, and time necessary to achieve it. This has been encouraged with many advertisements, easy to manuals, and looking around at others to see what they have accomplished. Success means different things based on our perception, perspective, and purpose. Examples of success could mean
Size of Bank Account
Size of House
Number of Cars
Extent of Personal Travel
Country Club Membership
You Fill In The Blank____________________
What I have learned is that success can only be valid to you based on your own definition and the value placed on achieving success in whatever direction you aspire. We see a lot of different qualities of success and how we get to the level we define as successful. Many people have given us their definitions. what about your own definition? What does success mean to you? Below are several qualities and characteristics we might consider as we make our mark on success as we understand it.
Let Go of The Past: This is one of the biggest components that could be stopping someone from becoming successful. We have and will continue to make mistakes. Learn from them and apply them in what you are doing in the present. Stop trying to re-live past performances in your head hoping for a different outcome. Act 2 is going on right now!
Accept Responsibility: Own up to your mistakes, shortcomings, and part you play. You are the CEO of your own life and must recognize your role in determining where your life and success take you.
Find a Mentor: This has been one of the best things I have included in my success journey. They have been there, have credibility, and can provide guidance towards certain areas of your life. Note: There is not a one size fits all in this category. You have to determine who is best suited based on where you are in your life and especially where you want to go.
Recognize Your Value: So many times, one reduces their worth by indicating they are not good enough, do not have enough experience, or know the right people. You know yourself and that is a great start! You bring the right perspective and understanding to the table. You are the missing ingredient to the solution in the situation.
Each of us has a lot to offer. My encouragement for you is to define your own success and take the necessary steps to move and achieve. We are unique and successful human beings. Today, recognize that thru action and determination, you will be successful in what you set in your mind. Your definition of success may not be mine. However, it does not minimize where we are trying to go. You have what it takes and you will get there as long as you remain observant, stay motivated, and keep pressing forward.
To Your Very Own Success!!
Good points, Chris. I see far too many people today, and not just millenials, that want success without effort on their part. Sorry folks, it doesn’t work like that.
I get irked at all the proposed short cuts. 5 things leaders always do, 10 things to do for success, 7 things successful people never do, etc. It just isn’t that simple and the things listed don’t always apply to all situations or all people.