05/23/2021
Success is multifaceted and has different definitions, depending on the person.
Success is rooted not in materialistic accumulation or financial prowess, but in our ability to stand on our own two feet, proud of the trail we are leaving behind.
Success is about facing fears and refusing to be defined by them, examining whether our decisions are inspired by growth or limiting beliefs.
When people insist on defining your success through their lens and according to their criteria, it can be problematic.
The thing about humans is that we want to belong so badly that we are consistently comparing ourselves to those around us, assessing our status and hierarchy within the group. To be perceived as not fitting in, is similar to the threat of death, subconsciously. In the old days, not fitting in meant you’d be eaten by tigers or big prey... so staying with the group, not standing out was essential to survival. Much of that internal belief system remains within us to this day.
Here’s what sucks about all of that:
Many of your friends and loved ones will become threatened by your success, especially if it is rapid or sudden. It can threaten their sense of self and value within the group.
You don’t have to live by the same narrative. With warmth and oblivious generosity, continue inviting those friends to be part of your life. They’ll find their balance. But certainly, above all, do not make yourself small!
Alternately, you, yourself, may find that you feel jealous when others are achieving things you’ve always wished for yourself. Remind yourself that success can be measured in so many ways and that the stereotypical markers of success do not have to define you.
To me, success is this:
✔️How have you made a positive impact on those around you?
✔️How do people tend to feel after they interact with you?
✔️How do you feel about your own accomplishments and the trail you’re leaving behind?
Soak in your own worthiness.
Do not be defined by some industrial version of success.
Don’t make yourself small for anyone.
