What is your Definition of Success if I asked?

Have you ever wondered why some people become very successful and others struggle their entire life trying to achieve that elusive goal for themselves?

Everyone has their own perspective or interpretation about what ‘Success’ really means, and it can be a highly personal idea.

Some would argue that success itself is not the most important thing.  It’s the journey to achieving success is what matters most, the theory being that we grow, learn and become more resilient, stronger and wiser during that time. 

John Maxwell recently defined his idea of success and it resonated with me.  He suggests that success can be attributed to three main points.

1.  Know Your Purpose
  

Knowing our purpose in life eludes many of us. Some people live their entire lives without ever figuring this out – it never really occurs to them to do the inner work to find their passions and pursue what lights them up.

The concept of living a purpose-driven life didn’t occur to me until later on in my adulthood as I was finishing up a decades-long career in social service.  I didn’t grow up thinking that I had valuable gifts to share with others.

Having lived so long without realizing the importance of ‘Knowing Your Purpose,’ I can easily compare it to driving a car without a steering wheel; on a journey, with no chance whatsoever of arriving at any destination.

First recommendation:  Find Your Purpose in Life.

2.  Be a Lifelong Learner 

John Maxwell stresses the importance of continuing on a journey of personal growth – to always be learning new things. 

I can't convey how much this one lesson has made a difference for me.  I recall a period of ten whole years following high school graduation where I didn't crack one single book.

At 28, I decided I wanted a university degree and realized I couldn’t focus on even an entertaining novel without dropping off to sleep. 

The goal of the degree meant so much to me though, that I forced myself to develop a habit of reading books again. 

I carved out regular ‘reading time’ in each day and picked only subjects that fascinated me.  I am so grateful to have taken those measures because today, I enjoy my e-reader – I can customize the size of the print, the font and choose from tones of reading options. Plus…I’m never daunted by the size of a book. 

With so many virtual webinar and training sessions, technology makes it easy for us to be perpetual students, to grow, pursue knowledge and develop to our maximum potential.

3.  Plant Seeds of Growth in Others 

John Maxwell conveys that the final dimension of success involves sharing our knowledge, adding value to the lives of others, encouraging their success, helping people grow and reach their full potential.

Why contain success?

I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity in my career to encourage people to grow and develop their talents and strengths.  

There was nothing more rewarding than uplifting those on my team and I felt privileged to work alongside some amazing people.
 

I believe seeing the potential in others and sharing that belief in their greatness – even when they don’t see it yet – and encouraging them to stretch and grow to their fullest potential is the mark of a masterful team-builder and leader.

Your Next Steps

Considering John Maxwell’s Theory of Success for a Purpose-Driven Life, I’d love to know where on your journey to success you are. 

• How do you feel about being a lifelong Learner? 

• Would you like to inspire others and cultivate the seeds of greatness in others?

I’d love to hear from you.  Let’s have a chat about reaching your potential or building a winning team.

Until next time, stay Bold and Confident. Jacqueline.