How do you define success? What measure do you use to define it? How do you make it in this new online world of social media competitiveness where the constant chatter makes it increasingly difficult to be 'seen'? What are you doing in order to stand out amongst the 'noise' of social media?
You might think that getting that book deal, that corner office, that CEO title, that Saveur "Best of..." award, or any other similar award is a measure of success. And it might be.
How you see yourself and which actions you take to stand out will be the driving forces behind your success.
There are various dictionary definitions of "success" which include:
1) the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors; the accomplishment of one's goals.
2) favorable or desired outcome; also : the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence
3) The gaining of fame or prosperity
Thankfully, there are many measures of success. One person's success might be the definition of another person's failure. Only you can determine what you deem successful.
For the 9 to 5 worker, it's about making it through the day so that you can get that steady paycheck. It's about coming home to recharge at night before the daily grind starts again the following morning. It's looking forward to the weekend when you're not having to sit through endless useless meetings or fighting for that next rung on the ladder that someone less qualified than you gets to climb onto due to favoritism. It's finding that creative outlet in the off hours that keeps your mind thinking.
For others, it's simpler. It's getting that meal on the table for your hungry children when all you desperately want is to go have that nap. You're tired, or sick, or both. For you, the measure of success is being able to provide that meal. You're not worried about being judged for opening that box of Annie's Organic Macaroni and Cheese for a quick meal for your kids while other moms are sitting there cutting out heart-shaped sandwiches and claiming their meals are better than yours because they're 100% homemade. Who cares?!
These days it seems that everyone wants to have her 15 minutes of fame. With social media that is both easy and difficult. Easy in the sense that the platform is available to a greater group of people. Difficult because you have to struggle in order to be heard amidst all of the noise and chatter online.
Did you win that highly coveted award? No? Well, that does not in any way make you a failure. Unless that is your measure of success. Awards are made up and subjective and these days based on being popular. So, your blog sucks...according to Saveur. Why do you care? At least you're doing something and not simply sitting on your ass thinking you're entitled to that title, award, office, or next rung on that ladder just because.
How do you succeed in this world? It depends on your definition of success and what you do in order to stand out amongst the crowd. Don't be afraid to be yourself. Don't try to be like everyone else. Believe in yourself and know that even if you've helped only one person by posting your thoughts on something you might deem unimportant, you've changed the course of thought or action for one person who will then turn around and do the same for others. A sincere thanks to you!