So what is success?

Is it wealth?  Is it happiness?  Is it fame?

The late Zig Ziglar was one of the most respected modern day  experts on success, motivation, and leading a balanced life. In his book Born to Win!, he argues that success cannot be defined in one sentence, but instead it is comprised of many things.  One could argue that the definition depends on the individual and that one size does not fit all.

Here are 19 different definitions of success.  Not all of these will resonate with you, but chances are at least a few of them will. Use these or find inspiration here to create your own definition of success that can be applied to your unique life.

1. Success is always doing your best

Success can be achieved when you try your best in all aspects of everything you do, even if that doesn’t lead to big results. If you’ve done your best, you should feel proud of your efforts.

2. Success is setting concrete goals

Be realistic and concrete when setting goals.  Success does not come from setting abstract goals.  If you know where you’re heading, that is a success in itself, even if you don’t ultimately arrive to the planned destination.

3. Success is having a place to call home

Home is where your heart soars.   You are always successful when you can call a place home.  Home doesn’t have to be a specific structure.  It can be a country, a city, or even a person.  If you have a place you feel comfortable and safe, you’re already achieving something great.

4. Success is understanding the difference between need and want.

If you can meet your monthly obligations and fulfill your basic needs, you are successful. Being able to identify when you absolutely need something and when you can do without it often leads to financial stability and is a great way to succeed.

5. Success is believing you can

If you believe you can, you will succeed.  Self-belief doesn’t come naturally to everyone, so if you’re able to tell yourself that you can achieve the goals in your plans, you’re doing great.

When people don’t believe in you, it is your own opportunity to work on your own confidence and prove yourself – not for them, but for that great little proud feeling for you! 😉

6. Success is remembering to balance work with passion

Work without passion creates undue stress and empty achievements.  Focus on what excites you.  If you’re happy at your job, that’s great.  However, even if you aren’t, you can balance your formal job with hobbies or volunteer work you’re passionate about.

7. Success is taking care of your needs

Remember to put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.  Self-care is essential if you want to have any meaningful impact on the world around you.

8. Success is learning that you sometimes have to say no

Success only comes with a balanced life.  Part of balance is learning to say no.  Saying no doesn’t mean you are selfish; it simply means you have priorities and know what you need to give your attention to at any given time.

9. Success is knowing your life is filled with abundance

Love, health, friends, family…life is filled with abundance. Recognizing this is an important step to feeling grateful for all life has given you.  Knowing, that there is enough for us all.  If you can feel this, you are already experiencing success.

10. Success is understanding you cannot keep what you don’t give away

You will only succeed if you help others to succeed.  Learning to give instead of always take is part of creating a world we all want to live in.  When you help others, you will also create an environment where others want to help you.

11. Success is overcoming fear

Conquering a fear makes you feel invincible.  Even if it’s confronting just one small fear each week, that is certainly something to feel proud of.  The bigger fears will take more time, but any work you do to overcome fear will lead to success.  Remember – what is on the other side is great sense of freedom that may even surprise you!

12. Success is learning something new each day

Successful people understand that learning never stops.  Take time each day to converse with someone with opposing views, read an interesting article on a topic you know little about, or watch a TED talk on new research.  It doesn’t take long to learn, so get started now and be inspired of all what’s around you.

13. Success is learning that losing a few battles can help you to win a war

Successful people choose their battles wisely.  When you know which battles will ultimately help you achieve your goals, you will be successful.  It is whatever you focus on and pay attention to.  Make sure you are climbing a ‘right ladder’ the one aligned with your values and who you are.

14. Success is loving and being loved back

Opening your heart to others is difficult and can produce fear.  Having an open heart and courage to love and accept love from others is a step towards a fulfilling life filled with joy and great success.

15. Success is standing your ground when you believe in something

Successful people never give up on things they believe with all their heart.  You may hold views that many people disagree with, but if you’ve done your soul search and know that it’s the right belief for you, hold on to it.  It is a gift!

16. Success is not giving up

Perseverance creates grit, and grit achieves success.  Even if it takes years to achieve a goal, persisting is key if you want success.When you feel like giving up, remind yourself what you’re fighting for.  As long as you have a strong “why” you will be able to persist.

17. Success is celebrating small victories

Anytime a goal is reached or an obstacle is overcome, take time to celebrate, even if it’s something small.  All goals require smaller objectives to be achieved first, so each time you complete one, take time to appreciate the work you put into it.

18. Success is never letting a disability hold you back

Disabilities do not define a person’s success.  The body and mind will compensate.  Just because you can’t do absolutely everything doesn’t mean you can’t do something.  Do what your body and mind allow and always allow yourself to think from the space of possibility. That is true success.

19. Success is understanding that you control your destiny

Your destiny is controlled by you and you alone.  Take responsibility for your actions and their consequences and you’ll find that you naturally become more successful.

The bottom line is, that success can be defined in many ways.   If you are experiencing happiness, love, or adventure in this moment, you’ve already found success. Keep it up.  

I wish you all good luck in fulfilling your life with meaningful moments filled with growth, love and abundance of joy and happy memories.