An interesting conversation recently started with a few of my clients and colleagues on listening to our internal compass and how we define success.
It is no secret that by definition, success is very personal and unique to each individual. Some may create a platform based on money, time off and others with a focus on philanthropy relative to overall income.
There is one thing for sure…the conversation is lively and the definitions are unique and personal.
The foundation to almost every discussion is the balance between wealth and wellness or wellbeing. We are looking for a formula that will not only achieve a certain dollar value but create a window of opportunity to take time off and enjoy our leisure time. I began to wonder if goals were based on gender, generation or industry; so I started an ad hoc survey.
Here are a few observations:
– everyone is looking for a balance between work and play
we recognize that there is a certain number for annual income based on lifestyle choices and responsibility that creates a goal
– we would all like to have more “time off” to pursue passion projects, hobbies or establish better relationships with friends and family
– industry norms are considered as part of the formula For example, if there is an average wage scale we consider the number relative to our own goals and objectives as a “baseline.”
There seems to be no difference based on gender, generation or industry, in fact, when starting a conversation with entrepreneurs in various geographical locations the discussion are the same.
We are looking for a roadmap to achieve our goals and objectives using similar tools for success that speak to our individual needs and personalities. Consideration is given to others experiences and success stories rather than the status quo.
I believe the gig workforce has created a number of innovative opportunities to achieve our mission and vision based on our passion. We learn skills that contribute to our success and we are interested in hearing about the success of others as a motivator for our own journey.
Through the Share Your Story series I have had the pleasure of speaking with a number of individuals who share the same goals and strive to achieve similar objectives.
Here is another little tid-bit of information: Those who are following their passion say they will simply “semi-retire” because the “love what they do” eventually winding down their business efforts to part-time (for as long as they are able) therefore reinforcing the balance between work and play.
Why?
Everyone is using their internal compass as a guidepost for change and transformation while at the same time creating their own definition of success.
Passion fuels the engine and we are all looking for a balance between wealth and wellness.
We may not realize but our individual roadmap may contribute to someone else’s journey by living through example.
So I have to ask: What is your definition of success?
We welcome your comments and would love to hear about your passion projects. Contribute to the dialogue by sharing your stories!