Success is not the goal

July 10, 2012 — 1 Comment

452104_15720785Success is defined as the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors. Read that slowly one more time and think about each word. I’m OK with favorable and prosperous. Termination, however, causes me to stop in my tracks.

Termination is the end or the conclusion. By definition, success is the stopping point. This is where everyone gets off the train.

Success sounds like something that happens right before they put you in a box at the front of the church. It’s the end. There is nothing left to do. Suddenly, success doesn’t sound so appealing.

So, if we aren’t pursuing success, what’s the goal of our lives? Influence. Influence is defined as the capacity or power of persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of others. That is the kind of life I want to live. I want to be a compelling force in the lives of other people.

We were put on this earth to influence each other. You have a responsibility to those around you. I have the same responsibility to my circle of influence. Our lives won’t be measured by the statistics that are so important today. Our lives will be measured by the people we influenced. Who are you influencing? Think about it!

Are you pursuing success or influence? What is the difference?

Do you need some influence in your life? Have you considered a Live Your Why Coach? Live Your Why Coaches will walk you through the process of discovering your why and then help you develop a plan to pursue it. If you want to know more, use the contact me form and I’ll get in touch with you.

  • Whitney Sparks

    “You have a responsibility to those around you.”  I love that line!