Success is defined in the Meriam-Webster’s dictionary as “the fact of getting or achieving wealth, respect, or fame” and “the correct or desired result of an attempt.” Often times the world we live in defines a successful person in the same manner as the first definition above; as one who is wealthy, well respected or famous, etc. 

I, however, challenge this definition and believe that success is better defined by the second definition above, which focuses more on achieving personal goals. My reason for this belief is simple- time and again I have witnessed people who live unhappy, unfulfilled lives despite riches and fame, therefore, in my opinion, not achieving success. To me, success is more of an all encompassing word, one that deals with many aspects, such as your family life, professional life, spiritual life, etc. Zig Ziglar’s Wheel of Life is a great representation of this idea, claiming that balance in all areas of the wheel leads to a successful life.

“Why spend so much time on the definition?” you may ask. Because the way we define success will directly correlate with how we measure success in our lives. Let’s say that by definition, we determine success to be attaining a new car or a new house. Then whether or not we attain that item will determine whether or not we see ourselves as successful. However, in my experience, wealth or fame does not lend itself to a “successful” life because it does not deal with you being the best you. It deals only with you attaining material possessions.

So now the question is, how do I/we achieve success? The best answer is this: sit down and think about the things that are really important to you (such as: family relationships, work-life balance, being debt free, maybe buying that new car or home, etc.) Once you determine what is really important to you, craft daily tasks that will get you closer to achieving “your” success. 

Charlene Armitage says: “Life goals are reached by setting annual goals. Annual goals are reached by reaching daily goals. Daily goals are reached by doing things which may be uncomfortable at first but eventually become habits. Habits are powerful things. Habits turn actions into attitudes, and attitudes into lifestyles.” So let me ask you, what are your annual goals? Your daily goals? I assert that goals which are not written down are simply wishes.

In my opinion the differentiator between us all is summed up in one word: ACTION. We all have dreams, goals and aspirations; the difference between those who reach their dreams, goals and aspirations and those who do not is action. So the question is, what actions are you taking today to achieve your dreams and goals for the future?