Ever Growing Ever Changing

Years ago, one single book redefined how I viewed success. I realised then how the usual definition in Jamaica and all over the world was…wanting.

You see, success in our Jamaican society and many other societies across the world means big ouse, big cyar, big jab (opulent homes, prestigious jobs, and flashy cars). The truth is most of us, no matter how conscientious, fall into the trap of defining success and our worth primarily by our material possessions and things that provide prestige.

So, in that sense, if we never attain these things or if we lose them, we also lose our sense of value or worth and, in some cases, our identity. And what of those women who do not achieve these things, but have chosen other priorities that make them happy? Are they disbarred from ever being considered successful? Are their lives and efforts, therefore, futile?

In Steven Covey’s The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, the compelling argument made is that you cannot be successful if you have only attained greatness in one area of your life to the detriment of the other important areas. In other words, what use is a great job if your family is crumbling and your friendships have withered? This really resonated with me. I think the mistake we make is thinking that we have all the time in the world to get around to all the other things, such as relationships, faith, and hobbies. We don’t.

Like Covey, it makes sense to me that the best approach to success is one that pays attention to all the key facets of our lives, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Spiritual: Nurturing our connection to God;
• Financial: Achieving stability and security, while avoiding the rat race;
• Career: Finding fulfilling work that aligns with our values and passions;
• Self-development: Continuously learning, growing, and evolving as individuals;
• Health: Prioritising physical and mental well-being;
• Family and relationships: Cultivating strong, supportive communities;
• Public service: Contributing to the betterment of our communities and world; and
• Recreation and hobbies: Making time for joy, play, and personal pursuits.

Another mistake many of us make is that we focus only on tangible things we can achieve. Project goals are great, but what about building good habits and a good character? Are we truly successful if we leave a trail of hurt and negativity in our wake?

So, after all of that epistle, what are my personal success principles? For me, success is:

• Balanced: It means harmony across life’s domains, not just one shining star amidst the litany of unfulfilled dreams;
• Self-defined: It is not dictated by societal pressures, but aligned with personal values and aspirations; and
• Value-based: It is rooted in what truly matters, beyond the glitz and glamour.

So, what does success look like for you?