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What is your definition of success?

Success is a multifaceted concept. It can be both a momentary achievement and a long-term journey, a blend of your ambitions becoming reality and your dreams intertwining with your daily life. It is at once concrete and elusive, often seen as something measurable by society but deeply felt on a personal level. While the world may judge success based on external markers like wealth or status, its true essence lies in how fulfilled and satisfied you feel within yourself.

What does success mean to you? What images or feelings come to mind when you imagine having “made it”? Does success look like reaching the pinnacle of your career or accumulating wealth? For some, it may mean these things, while for others, it could be retiring early, holding an art exhibition, or coaching a child’s sports team.

For some, success is defined by major accomplishments, while others find it in small, everyday victories. It could be nurturing relationships, raising kind and responsible children, or living a life guided by strong values. To some, success might mean achieving personal or professional milestones, while for others, it’s overcoming challenges, breaking records, or living ethically.

Everyone has a unique vision of success. Your definition may differ from mine, and that’s the beauty of it. We all have our own place in the world, shining from within based on what gives us purpose and fulfillment. The most important truth about success is that there’s no single definition. It’s deeply personal, and every individual’s version is just as valid as anyone else’s.

Society’s Standards of Success

In many industrialized cultures, success is often defined by three key elements: power, wealth, and fame. The assumption is that if you have one or all of these, you are “successful” by society’s standards. However, this definition is limited. It overlooks the countless people who may not be rich, powerful, or famous but are still incredibly successful on their own terms. These are individuals who have achieved personal goals and dreams that come from within, not from societal expectations.

Success, like love, is intangible and cannot be universally measured. What it means to one person might hold no relevance for another. While it may be a shared goal for many, its true judge is you alone. Only you can determine what success looks like for you.

Are You Goal-Oriented?

Do you consider yourself a goal-oriented person? Do you constantly set targets for yourself, feeling lost without something to strive for? If so, that’s a great trait. Many people struggle with setting and achieving goals, but being goal-oriented can be learned.

A goal-oriented person is often someone who succeeds in life because they know exactly what they want and are willing to take risks to achieve it. Setting a goal is easy; staying committed to it requires persistence, hard work, dedication, confidence, and courage. Realizing that success takes time, and not expecting instant gratification, is key. Many people give up when things don’t happen quickly, but a goal-oriented person understands that setbacks are part of the journey and keeps going.

Do you approach your goals this way? Anyone can learn to accomplish what they desire in life, but it all starts with a burning desire to achieve something. Without that internal motivation, it’s hard to move forward. Yes, it can be risky to chase your dreams, but overcoming the fear of failure is part of the process.

Can you envision yourself achieving your dreams? The only difference between people who succeed and those who don’t is the willingness to put in the effort. So, what’s stopping you? Your dreams are within reach if you’re willing to take the first step. Why not start today and be thankful later that you did, rather than look back with regret?

The first step might seem intimidating, but once you take it, you’ll find it’s not as hard as it seems. You’ll rediscover your passion for life and realize that you have the potential to achieve anything you set your mind to. This belief will not only change your life but also inspire those around you, including your children. So, start now and embrace the journey toward your dreams!

For more insights, feel free to visit www.lifeselfcoaching.com.

Avra Lyraki (Ph.D. MCC, ICF)

Global Executive Communication Coach (MCC, ICF) | Government & C-Level Communication Mentor|ICF Assessor, ACTC & Mentor Coach| TEDx Speaker| HBR Advisory Council Member