How Do You Define Success?
Earlier this year, I worked with a client who, in my eyes, was riding the momentum from a number of accomplishments. I was surprised when she lamented about what she saw as a lack of success. She was weighed down by a definition of success that was someone else’s definition. In her mind, success was supposed to be tied to a specific amount of money. Those dream accomplishments she achieved meant less to her because she didn’t make the amount of money she related to feeling successful. In her eyes despite her accomplishments, she had failed. I’d like to know - how do you define success?
I’ve watched many small business owners base their definition of success on someone else’s definition. Other people’s vision of success comes with other people’s values and goals that you don’t necessarily align with. Then when they don’t meet the goals that weren’t theirs in the first place, they feel defeated.
Finding your definition requires only one person’s opinion - yours. Success isn’t one-size-fits-all, and it’s relative to each person. You have to decide what success means for you.
So how do you figure this out?
Here are some ways to define success and how to determine what complements your vision:
Revenue or Profit
For some business owners money is the clear goal. It might be hitting 10k months or six figures, or even seven figures, or achieving a certain profit margin. But it’s crucial to ask yourself: “Why this number?” Does it allow you to live comfortably, support your family, or achieve a specific goal?
Making an Impact on the Clients You Serve
Your success could be defined by the difference you make for the clients you help. Do they feel empowered, healthier, or more confident after working with you? You might find fulfillment not in the number of clients you have but in the depth of the impact you had on them.
A Better Blend of Work and Life
Not everyone wants to hustle 24/7. Success to you can be earning enough to sustain your lifestyle and still have time for family, hobbies, or self-care. You can choose how many hours you work or clients you see.
Thought Leadership in Your Industry
Establishing a reputation as a leader or innovator may be what drives you. Maybe speaking at industry conferences, publishing articles, or mentoring the next generation is what you’re after. This is more legacy-based than income-driven.
Something Else Entirely
Success can be scaling back your business to take care of an aging parent or starting a second business to serve a different market. Or creating a sustainable business model that aligns with your passion for environmental issues.
Why Defining Your Success Matters
Your own version of success will keep you motivated and focused on your goals. It will keep you connected to your purpose and values. Here are a few key benefits to finding your definition of success:
Clearer Purpose. When you know what you’re aiming for, it’s easier to keep working towards it.
Aligned Goals. Achieving goals that represent success for you keeps you going in more challenging moments.
Freedom from Comparison. Being clear on your success and how to get there keeps you from measuring yourself against others.
A Better Business and Life. Following your version of success will feel good. Period!
Here’s what defining your version of success requires:
Know yourself and your values
Consider your vision for your life and business
Choose realistic financial goals
Be honest about what success looks like to you
When you take the time to define your vision of success, you give yourself the freedom to have a business and life that honors who you are.
Defining your best version of success requires some deep exploration of what you want from your business. I offer clients support around this all the time. If you’d like to know what that looks like, let’s set up a time to chat.