Most people would like to be “successful,” but it isn’t always clear exactly what that means.  There are probably as many definitions of success as there are people trying to achieve it. 

The definition of success needs to fit YOU and your life.  Figuring out what success means to you may seem like a daunting task, but isn’t really when you follow these 6 simple steps:

1. Figure out what area or areas you want your definition to cover. 
Some possibilities might include definitions of success related to relationships, career, finances, physical surroundings, spirituality, leisure time, health and wellness, and/or balance. 

2. State your definition in the form of “I know I am successful when. . .” or “I know I am being successful by how. . .”

3. Think carefully about how you will KNOW that you are successful. 
How will you be able to tell?   Be specific about this!  Avoid using words like “happy” or “satisfied.”  HOW will you know when you are happy? 

4. If your definition of success appears to be so far away you can hardly imagine getting there, ask yourself “What will be the first small sign I will notice that tells me I’m headed toward success?” 

5. Look at your definition at least once a month. 
Does it still fit?  Is it helping guide your decisions?  If not, modify it until it fits your life as it is NOW.

6. Make sure the definition of success is really YOURS. 
Your definition of success needs to be congruent with YOUR values and with who YOU are, not a reflection of societal ideas of success, or what your parents or teachers told you was necessary in order to be successful.   This is YOUR LIFE you are living. 

Once you figure out what success means to you, you can begin to take steps to create it by designing an action plan to reach that outcome.  Remember that you can’t take this trip until you know where you are going.

© 2008 Linda S. Pucci, Ph.D.

Linda Pucci, Ph.D. is a psychologist, life coach, trainer and owner of Inner Resource Center, LLC in Maryville, TN.  She has 30 years of experience helping people overcome obstacles and self-sabotage by using her solution focused approach.  She is dedicated to helping people find the resources they need to transform their lives.  For more information and free resources, including a free download of Banish the Goal Setting Gremlins and Reach Your Highest

Category: Getting There · New Directions