Re-framing success

Success.

I honestly struggle with what is defined as success. Any achievement that brings you joy? But there are so many definitions of achievements - Wealth, that elusive promotion, getting a qualification, possessing that coveted item and so on - to each their own. What really is success to you?

Success is a whole host of things. The traditional success yardsticks - wealth, great job with plenty of money, doting spouses, nice car, nice house, amazing holidays - yes, these are great measures and totally worthy of celebrations. But, what if you’re like me? Yes, we have some of these things but not all. Then, does that mean we are not as successful as others? For me - success is what brings me joy. Small byte sized wins. Larger goals achieved. I count them daily. Sometimes, it is just staying through a challenging project or situation or navigating a difficult conversation. Sometimes it’s speaking up for myself and being courageous. Sometimes, it’s just standing back and seeing how far I have come in my journey as a mom or a breakthrough in something I am working on with a client.

These things bring me a sense of contentment, satisfaction and ultimately joy. What about you? What brings you joy? Does doing these things raise your spirits a little bit more, do they make you smile and light hearted - joyful?

So, let’s not get hung up on whether we are successful or what defines success. Because, if you look at yourself with honestly, grace and compassion - just being YOU is a success in itself. Your daily achievements are byte sized successes. Multiply this to monthly, yearly achievements and there you have compounded success.

Go inward today and have an honest look at what is success to you. Remember, we all have successes if you look at it with a different lense.

And then, CONGRATULATE yourself on your amazingness.

Honour yourself.