Once we set our goals and do the work, we find ourselves looking around and wondering how we will ever know if we have truly found success. In order to know if we have achieved what we want to achieve, we must first define what success looks like for each of us.
Let’s see how others define success. Some say success is always doing your best. For others it can be defined by properly setting concrete goals and/or having a place to call home and a support system that define success. For many it’s simply understanding the differences between needs and a wants. The list of what success looks like is endless. It could be said that a successful person is made up of tenacity, grit, intentionality, authenticity, genuineness, hope, and resiliency; dogged determination is the key to success, the sole reason why people succeed.
Success is entirely dependent on each person’s definition. For me, success is fully living in each and every moment, loving without judgment, making my health a priority, and passionately pursuing my dreams. Having a good laugh, spending time with my kiddo and managing a good work/life balance, is how I determine if the day was a success. But let me be clear. This is what success looks like for me, and may not be what success looks like for you.
The first step in defining success is knowing where we are going. We can’t know if we ever reach success if we don’t first define what success means to us. To do this, picture yourself 10, 20, 30, or 40 years in the future. What do you see yourself doing? What will you have accomplished? My advice is to dream big and then dream bigger. Dare to imagine your ideal future and then make this your end goal – your moment of success.
People achieve their goals simply by showing up and putting forth effort. The more you put yourself out there, the more likely success is to find you.
Before you start to question whether you have what it takes to be successful, let me tell you, you do. Each and every one of us has exactly what it takes to be successful. On our journey we will face failure, challenges, obstacles, and roadblocks. Be determined. Never give up.
If we were to take a step back and look at everything, we would need to define our passions, strengths, and unique skills. Define your goals, personal vision and mission statements. Putting these all together will result in your definition of success. The key is to remember that only you will know when you achieve success.
Our next series will focus on leadership and how to use our natural skills to be more effective leaders.
Sara Orellana is an independent entrepreneur who specializes in strategic planning, leadership, and grant writing. She can be reached at sara@3raptorconsulting.com.