How Do You Measure Success?
By Christie Ryan
We all want to be successful in some aspect of our lives. Whether we are parents, professionals, ranchers, or students, we want to feel fulfilled or “successful” in what we are doing. Success can be measured in terms of money, results, or in terms of happiness.
Over the next several months, I will be interviewing successful individuals to explore what made them so. This first interview conveys the views of a friend and attorney on what success means to her.
FREEDOM is how she describes success. More than monetary compensation, she wanted the flexibility to adjust her schedule to the needs of her family. She also wanted to build something of her own and to have the respect of her peers.
MOTIVATION: As we encounter the obstacles of any profession, we need to have something that keeps us plowing through the details, day after day. My friend’s motivation was her own sense of pride in what she was doing and in the fact that she was respected for her intelligence. “I like when people ask for my opinion because they respect me, and that they don’t see me as power hungry.”
DAILY HABITS: Organization is essential in reaching her goals. “I look at my calendar every morning and always know what the day holds.”
RISKS: Being a risk taker has to be an element in achieving success. “I am willing to take a risk; fear has never been a factor. There isn’t any decision I’ve made that I can’t undo. Jobs come and go. If you’re willing to change what’s not working, you’ll be successful.”
Other variables that contributed to her success were networking and volunteering for professional organizations. That name recognition opened doors to other opportunities and career growth.
Overall, circumstances may have affected her location and initial plans. However, staying focused, being open to opportunity and not letting fear determine her decisions led the way to a successful career.
We can all look within ourselves, at our fear, motivations and choices, and determine if we are on the path we choose for our own success. What’s keeping you from taking the next step?
Christie Ryan is a registered nurse and Independent Beachbody Coach. She has a passion for health and fitness and enjoys helping people change their lives. Her local business is Concepts in Weight Mangament and Team Beachbody. She can be contacted at 785-827-3131 or cryan@ruraltel.net.
www.facebook.com/ChristieTeambeachbody