We all define success
differently. For some, it might be the ability to purchase a nice car or take a
fabulous vacation. For others, it might mean being able to provide for one’s
family. I think it’s important to take the time to explicitly define what success
means to you. And of course, you don’t have to settle on just one
definition.
I’ve been doing some reflecting
lately, what actions have lead me to be the most happy in my personal and
professional life. http://www.sfi4.com/12009700/first
When I think about my
successes, and the successes of my peers, several practices immediately jump
out at me. Want to be a successful person? Do the following:
1. Seek out new experiences. It’s easy to get caught up spending your
time doing the things you already know you like. If that's all you do, you
won’t grow as much as a person. The wider the range of experiences you pursue,
the more you will be exposed to different people, lifestyles and perspectives.
If you can put yourself in someone else’s shoes, you will have more empathy.
Seeking out new experiences means you’re willing to challenge yourself and want
to keep learning about the world around you. Those are two keys to success.
2. Abandon your expectations. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that having
expectations is a surefire road to disappointment. Why not walk into an
unfamiliar situation with an open mind? It’s impossible to be let down if you
don’t make assumptions about what should or shouldn’t happen. When you open
yourself up to possibility, not necessarily expecting anything immediately or
directly in return, amazing things can happen. I’ve been reminded of this time
and time again.
3. Treat everyone you meet with
respect. Everyone
has something to offer. You’ll be surprised at how many people will be willing
to support and follow you if you treat them with respect, regardless of what
they’ve achieved or where they are in their life. To be successful, we all need
help. It’s impossible to predict who may be able to help you later. People are
dynamic. Things change. Don’t miss out an opportunity to befriend someone
because you’re too judgmental.
4. Give back. Whether it’s to a charity, a cause you
believe in or a stranger who could benefit from your help, there are
immeasurable benefits to thinking of others. For one, you’ll become a better
and more attentive listener. You’ll focus less on your own shortcomings.
5. Celebrate milestones, large
and small. Let me
tell you: When you finally achieve that goal that has been eluding you, it
won’t feel as great as you imagined it would. That’s been my experience anyway.
You’ll be a much happier person if you celebrate each step along the way. If
you wait to celebrate that one elusive goal -- you might end up waiting a long
time. There’s so much more for you to appreciate. And when you make the time to
celebrate milestones, you welcome others -- your friends and family -- to take
part in your success.
6. Let go of the past. Mistakes are stepping stones to success.
People who are willing to take risks inevitably make mistakes. That’s OK. I’ve
learned more from my mistakes than my successes. In fact, I know I couldn’t
have been successful without making mistakes. So stop beating yourself up. And
in that same vein, try not to be so hard on others.
What’s your personal definition
of success? Tell me in the comments section.
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