What is your definition of success?

How would you define success?  I think the modern definition of success leaves a lot to be desired.  Look in any dictionary and you will see a definition that goes something like this: to gain wealth or fame.  I am sure that if you asked 100 leaders their definition of success it would be very close to what you find in the dictionary, but the reality is that it is much more than just making more money and being famous.

Look at some of the so-called successful people in the news today.  Bernard Madoff had a lot of wealth and fame and is now in prison.  Look what is happening to the “Governator”, Arnold Schwarzenegger, after news of his affair with a maid.  Looking at the definition in our dictionaries these two guys would be described as successful, but are they really?

Early in American history our leaders believed that success was a gift from God and any successful people were living in God’s favor.  Ben Franklin wrote that “the pursuit of wealth was virtuous and would lead to success.”  General George Patton defined success as “how high you bounce when you hit bottom” and Coach John Wooden said that “Success is a peace of mind, a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing that you did your best.”

As leaders how will we know if we are successful?  Personally, I will know I am successful when I do the following:

·        Am a role model for my family and friends

·        Put others before myself

·        Talk to God every day

·        Become a servant

·        Become the best husband and father I can be

·        Love others as I love myself

·        Share my financial gifts with others

How’s that for a short list?  Needless to say I am a long way from being successful, but hey I have the rest of my life to work on it.

The real question is how will you know when you are successful?  Hopefully you will spend some time thinking about it.

Have a great week!