I have always found this phrase confusing. "The key to success is..."
Success is measured subjectively. It is completely different from person to person. There is not one definition of success that encompasses all people.
For instance - I feel successful in life. When I really think about it - when I don't compare my success to someone else's definition of success - then I am thrilled with what I have achieved.
I am not rich. I am not famous. I am not a CEO of a profitable company. I, frankly, don't even have a career.
What I do have is a home. I have friends and family who are genuine and caring. I have my own personal family (even if he is a dog). I have hobbies and interests and passion and love. I have traveled and experienced exciting and new activities, foods, and culture. I am successful!
When I compare myself to other definitions of success, unfortunately it can create a feeling of uselessness.
What is the first thing that people ask when in a social situation?
"So... What do you do?" Or "are you married?" Or "do you have children?"... These are very normal questions that people ask to label someone based on status. Maybe we should be asking each other what we do for fun? What do you enjoy doing? If it happens to be your career then that's incredible! What is the most important part of your life? It may be your marriage, your children, your dog, your job, your friends, your hobbies (whatever they may be). Why is our first instinct to base success on what someone does for a living and possibly how much money an individual makes?
I may not be successful in the conventional way. I am not married, I do not and cannot have children, and I am unable to work. When I explain these facts in social situations, I feel absolutely worthless. I feel useless, sad, discouraged, and frustrated.
What I SHOULD be feeling is absolute pride! I have been through more than most people go through in a lifetime as far as illness is concerned. I have achieved more than we ever thought possible once I was diagnosed.
And the best part? I do my very best to be a kind person. I have my moments, like anyone, but I refuse to go through life being angry on a daily basis. It is a waste of energy. I want to live every day cherishing at least one moment.
Success SHOULD mean a variety of things. Maybe we could start changing our instinct to ask what people do and start asking what people LOVE to do.
And goals don't have to be formidable - they just have to keep us going and help us to always look forward and have a plan.
There is no key to success.