I define success as “the achievement of intention.” My belief is that no matter how well you do in life, if you’ve always wanted to be something that you are not, then you will not feel successful. You will feel accomplished and proud, but there will be a longing in your soul that leaves an emptiness which cannot be filled with accolades. Strategy helps you achieve success.
I define strategy as the process of mapping your path from where you are to where you want to be. It’s a simple three-step process…in theory.
Step One: Decide where you want to be. Many people overlook this step. Not just in business, but in life. We are taught to let someone older and more experienced tell us what we should be.
Step Two: Assess where you are. Identify your talent. Know your strengths.
Step Three: Think about what has to happen to get from where you are to where you want to be and WRITE IT DOWN!
This process is simple, but not easy. It took me more than 50 years of my life to get it right. It’s a solitary journey. The people you know best and trust the most will push you away from this process because they care about you. They want to see you succeed…but they teach what they’ve been taught, so they tell you to pursue the highest paying careers. They tell you that academic achievement will position you for financial success. They want you to follow the path that has been tried and true…for safety and for security.
Does it work? Sure. Many people have jobs or businesses that are safe and secure. On the other hand, statistics show that 70% of people who have college degrees are employed in jobs that have nothing to do with their degree and 70% of people are disengaged at work…meaning, they are not fulfilled by their job responsibilities. They show up, do what they have to do and can’t wait until the weekend comes so they can have some fun.
It can be better. It must be better. Only you can make it better. Whether you are best suited for business or employment is your choice. Don’t allow anyone to shame you into one or the other. One is not better than the other, but you will be better if you choose for yourself. Think about what lights you up and do it. You will work harder and smarter if you are internally motivated and you are doing what you do best each and every day.
I LOVE what I do. I have been fortunate to have had opportunities to do what I do best by happenstance. Had I been aware earlier in life that strategy and organization were my superpowers I might have traveled the same path, but approached my work in a way that was more aligned with my talent. I spent many years feeling inadequate because I tended not to do things “the right way.” In reality, my way was the best way…for me and for the organization. I just didn’t realize it. Now I know.
I want you to know that you need not fear your future. Tap into your talent. No matter how old (or young) you are, there’s no time like the present to begin. Use strategy to map your path and fulfill the rest of your life with intention.
