Recent events gave me the opportunity to reflect on the feeling we get when we succeed at something. And by chance I came across a book by called “The Success Myth” by which caught my interest and made me want to read more.
I found that the author (Emma Gannon) had become intrigued by her interviews with many people who were “successful” yet who often failed to show really contentment and happiness in their lives.
I soon realised that the book was really all about what creates happiness and how we often have misconceptions that “success” will bring this elusive state. I came away with a few key reminders which I will share.
There is no one formula for success.
Hard work alone is not enough.
The idea that “anyone can be whatever they want to be” is misleading. Other factors come into play and these include luck, privilege and talent.
Sometimes we are not aware of the privileges that we enjoy that can work in our favour – apparently if you are taller, you are more likely to experience success!
Who our parents are, where we were born, our race, our gender, our age.
Acknowledge that we don’t live in a meritocracy and become aware of any factors that may have helped us along the way – in this way foster humility.
Sometimes we chase other people’s idea of success and it is important that we find our own authentic version.
Validation can be a dangerous thing to chase yet a common desire.
Success is about remaining in the present – in both the sad and the joyful times of life.
Take time to write down what you have achieved so far, instead of what you still want to achieve!
This is not meant to take away from the achievements of the people we have highlighted above, but just a timely reminder that success can be measured in many ways.
A great exercise is to ask yourself now, “How will I know I am successful?”
Write down your responses. See how they fit with what is written above.