Success Looks Like…
I’ve encountered a lot of “success models” over the years and I have found that the vast majority are extremely lacking in terms of both practicality and reality. I’ve been pitched even more that have guaranteed that success will occur if only a few things are in place – like a verifiable ingredient list for baking an apple pie.
Success is never guaranteed and it certainly doesn’t look like what many report it to be. I often wonder if those that have apparently reached “success” actually see it for what it truly is.
One thing for sure is the fact that everyone that I’ve interfaced with works extremely hard. Sure, they work “smarter” but they still work hard at it, refining their techniques, honing their craft, and pushing through the daily spells of being tired and opting to “jump back in” when they really don’t feel like it.
Those that truly further and advance their careers take one less “smoke break,” watch one less Youtube video, turn off the sitcoms and video games, read one less RSS feed, and instead pour that energy back into their labor. They do not work in vain – they see the fruit and they know it’s coming, just not right now.
There are people who coach others out of the “doldrums” of life – I am encouraged and inspired by those people, especially since I am not that type of “coach.” I coach people who are driven, passionate, and who are able to help themselves but who need a bit of direction and guidance converting their interests into a program of sustainability.
I love accelerating people and the subsequent organizations that they are a part of. I love to help orient and coach them to pursue their dreams with a bit more clarity and give them the tools and confidence that they need.
I also remind them, very explicitly at times, that it’s a lot of work. That’s the only formula for success that I’m aware of.
Reminds me of ChurchMag’s social media strategy.
that is true.
So simple and yet so profound. Thanks for the reminder, John!
sure thign loren!
I just heard this and immediately flipped over here to share:
Being truly successful at something goes beyond desire and enters into discipline. ~Perry Noble
discipline is tough work.
The truth. Plain and simple.
I see this all the time… “I often wonder if those that have apparently reached “success” actually see it for what it truly is.” What then results are the successful people selling what they think brought them success without a critical component… work.
I also believe that working hard isn’t enough for success either though. I think there is a key factor of timing, luck, strategy and the “right” hard work that play into the mix.
sure, there’s a lot of luck involved.
I like how simple it is. I got to thinking would mistakes and failure be a part of achieving success. I guess it would go into the experience category wouldn’t it? I’m working on becoming successful everyday where I’m following my dream of becoming a professional golfer and I know sometimes I stumble, fall down, take two steps back, but if I didn’t do these things I wouldn’t know what it’s like to succeed. I do agree however, success takes a lot of hard work. I look forward to reading more about your success models.
sure thing! i’ve got some more coming!
You are so right in saying that success is “not guaranteed, and it certainly doesn’t look like what many report it to be.” I would add to that the fact that success is relative. Success looks different to everyone. I consider being a stay-at-home mom and writer a success for me, but others would not consider that to be the case. Instead, they focus on a career in the corporate world as success. When it comes to success, as in so many areas of life, comparisons are dangerous.
love this. comparing “success” is pretty much fruitless.
In many places in this world, working hard = survival.
uh. yes.
I love this post. I’m actually reviewing The Dip by Seth Godin right now, so your post really hits home- “the dip is the long slog between starting and mastery. . . Successful people don’t just ride the dip. . . they lean into it.” -Seth Godin
ah. i love that!
I love your blog, thanks for this post. Reminds me of one of my favorite poems by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:
‘The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night.’
jason,
thanks for this quote. i needed this today!
Anytime! Glad you liked it. Keep it up, I’m really inspired by your work and hustle.
hustle is such a funny word.
My dad has Always told me that if you are not working hard then you are hardly working. I think this would apply here.
quote is often used as a joke… too bad that it’s lost it’s flavor.