What does success mean to you? Such a fuzzy concept, right? Is being successful about money in the bank, living a certain lifestyle, or presenting a certain image?

Hall-of-fame basketball coach John Wooden describes success with profound simplicity: “Peace of mind”. That’s it! According to Wooden the essence of success is not about accolades, titles or money, but merely being satisfied with your effort. In other words: Did you give it your all?

Have you ever had a “win” that should have been meaningful but left you feeling dissatisfied and empty? Right from when we are at school to when we’re chasing job promotions we are conditioned to believe the importance of winning. However, success is much more than winning. Wooden suggests that success is more about the journey than the outcome and that the effort you put into achieving your goals is more rewarding than a win. According to him success is greater than winning, just like character is greater than reputation.

Here’s the question though: Does this definition of success lead to results? Will you be successful and have peace of mind, yet never reach your goals?

Ironically, the normal symbols of success like money in the bank, accolades and profits will come naturally when you make true success your focus. Thing is, if you constantly and enthusiastically strive to give 100% effort to become your best, you can’t help to experience the by-product of success in your chosen endeavours. So, if you make an effort to do the best you can, the results will be what they should be.

Societal pressure runs strong, after all, when you stick to the herd you rarely get eaten! But every single day someone breaks away from the herd to do amazing things. People who’ve achieved massive success aren’t like others. They’ve become who they are because they’ve truly participated in this thing we call life by being true to themselves, pursuing their passions and creating their own opportunities.

Success starts with your effort and with your expectation of excellence. It’s about turning the responsibility back to you. Sure, learn from others, but never try to be better than someone else. Rather focus on being the best version of you. Don’t get too involved and concerned with things you can’t control; these will not bring you success and happiness. Focus on the abundance of blessings in your life and spend more time with the people who love and support you.

Turns out that success is ultimately peace of mind attained only through self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to do the best of which you’re capable.

So, find your purpose, play to your strengths. Choose to be authentic and embrace it unapologetically.

“Too many people measure how successful they are by how much money they make or the people that they associate with. In my opinion, true success should be measured by how happy you are”  - Richard Branson.

Source: smallbusinessify.com, shoutoutla.com, coachcarcon.com, goblaexperiences.com, blog.movegb.com, ricklindquist.com, ted.com, mikesimpson.blog, lifehack.org, goodreads.com, forbes.com, wisegeek.com, personalexcellence.co, mindbodygreen.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.