How Do You Define Success?
Every one of us can define success using our own criteria, Family, relationships, career, peace of mind, spirituality, finances, knowledge, comfort, safety, health and dozens of other variables can all be brought into the equation of success measurement.
We all have unique values and opinions on what is most important in our lives. We all have dreams and goals that spring from our beliefs about what’s important to us. And our beliefs drive our actions.
Our priorities can be a catalyst for taking steps toward realizing our dreams. However, before we launch ourselves into action, it can be helpful to take a step back and assess what our priorities are and how they fit into our definition of success.
One person can have many motivators that drive them forward in their goals and plans. The following are a few areas to consider when evaluating your priorities:
• Relationships: Perhaps, for you success means building long-term and meaningful relationships with loved ones. This can include deepening friendships,
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being a better partner to your spouse, or being the best parent you can be to your child.
• Finances: Our finances can impact every aspect of our lives. Placing an emphasis on financial goals can mean focusing on increased revenue for your business or generating personal wealth or a security blanket of savings.
• Career: Priorities in your career may involve moving up the corporate ladder at a current place of employment, starting your own business, celebrating your life’s work at your retirement, or going after a dream job that you have always wanted.
• Inspiration: Your objectives might include inspiring and coaching others to accomplish their goals. Countless non-profit workers, educators and volunteers dedicate their lives to enhancing the well-being of others. For many people, personal success can mean helping another individual to recognize their potential.
• Development: Your interests could be tied to developing a skill or hobby in your personal life. For example, you may find you feel most happy and accomplished after advancing your skills in photography or art. Learning doesn’t have to lead to an educational degree. We can learn every day from others we meet – then apply what we learned as we develop our own capabilities.
Your objectives may include a combination of the areas mentioned above, or they might involve a priority that is entirely different. But in either case, once you have a clear understanding of which areas of your life are most important, you will be able to better establish goals and visualize your success.
Defining what is most important to you allows you to have a better grasp on your values. It enables you to feel empowered when making decisions, because you’ll be more certain that your choices align with long-term priorities.
John J. Hall, CPA
John J. Hall, CPA, is an author, speaker and results expert who presents around the world at conventions, corporate meetings and association events. Throughout his 35-year career as a business consultant, corporate executive and professional speaker, John has helped organizations and individuals achieve measurable results. He inspires audience members in corporations, not-for-profit organizations and professional associations to step up, take action and “do what you can.”