Defining Your Own Victory: Beyond the Highlight Reel
My Dearest Humans,
My sister shared an article with me today that really resonated. It was about success, and how we all perceive it differently even if we don't know exactly what success means to us personally.
In a world where everything and everyone is "ON" all the time, it's hard to gauge what's real, what's true, what's authentic. And, yet, we still compare ourselves, and more often than not, find ourselves lacking in one capacity or another. That's a hell of a lot of weight to carry on our shoulders, especially when it's very likely what we're seeing isn't reality at all.
It's easy to get caught in the trap of comparing your unedited, everyday life to someone else's carefully curated highlight reel. Social media, in particular, has become a master illusionist, showing us polished snippets that rarely reveal the struggles, the doubts, or the behind-the-scenes effort. We see the promotion, not the years of grinding work. We see the perfect vacation photo, not the bickering that happened right before the shot was taken. We see the "dream life," and then we look at our own and feel like we're falling short.
But here's the powerful truth: your definition of success is yours alone to create. It's not found in a carefully constructed Instagram feed or a LinkedIn profile. It's not, or at least it shouldn't be, dictated by societal expectations, family pressures, or what your neighbors are doing. True success is deeply personal, rooted in your values, your passions, and what brings you genuine fulfillment.
Think about it: If you're constantly striving for someone else's version of success, how will you ever truly feel satisfied? You might achieve a goal that looks impressive from the outside, but if it doesn't align with who you are and what truly matters to you, it will feel hollow. That "hell of a lot of weight" you're carrying? Much of it comes from chasing an ideal that isn't even authentically yours.
Reclaiming Your Personal Definition
So, how do you start to shed that weight and define success on your own terms?
Look Inward, Not Outward: Take some time for introspection. What genuinely excites you? What activities make you lose track of time? What kind of impact do you want to have on the world, big or small? What does a "good day" truly look like for you, independent of anyone else's opinion?
Identify Your Core Values: What principles guide your life? Is it freedom, connection, creativity, security, growth, kindness? When your actions and goals align with your core values, you'll feel a profound sense of purpose and integrity, which is a powerful form of success.
Redefine "Winning": Maybe success for you isn't about the corner office, but about having more time with your family. Perhaps it's not about a huge bank account, but about mastering a new skill or making a meaningful difference in your community. It could be about finding peace, building stronger relationships, or nurturing your well-being.
Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination: Success isn't a fixed point you arrive at; it's an ongoing process of growth, learning, and contribution. Celebrate the small victories, appreciate the lessons learned from setbacks, and find joy in the everyday moments that make up your unique path.
When you clarify what success means to you, the external noise begins to fade. The comparisons lose their power. You begin to operate from a place of authenticity and strength, and that, my friends, is where true fulfillment lies.
What does success truly mean to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
