My definition of success is quite simple – I am successful when I have more want-to’s in my day than have-to’s.
Generally speaking, I’m very good at lessening the have-to’s and maximizing the want-to’s. This has taken practice and focused attention at times but it always yields the desired outcomes and goals I am looking for – whether that is landing new business, financial growth, building brand and reputation or whatever.
But I was reminded yesterday of how important my definition of success is to my whole life, not just my business.
Recently, I’ve been immersed in feelings of personal overwhelm. Teenagers and their angst, holiday craziness and so on. These feelings haven’t been helped by a flu bug I cannot shake.
There has definitely been more have-to’s than want-to’s recently!
After a very busy day, I settled in front of the TV last night to watch one of my favorite programs – the legal drama The Good Wife. In a scene where Mom and daughter are briefly chatting about their very difficult year and some of the things that have gotten in their way, Mom said “there have just been a lot of distractions.” Her daughter simply replied “then get rid of some.”
Like a smack in the head, those words hit me. Not the “there have just been a lot of distractions.” I already know that one. It is an oft-used excuse. No, it was the other phrase – “then get rid of some.”
Yup, sounds easy. And you know what? It is easy!
With anything, once a firm decision has been made, the execution of the actions is much simpler. Easy, in fact.
So first thing this morning, I have started to eliminate some of the personal (and professional) distractions that have clogged up my life recently. I can feeeeel the commitment of my decision as I take each step to declutter my life.
And it really is oh so easy once the decision is made!
Related posts:
Better Decide Soon
Decide To
Decide. Period.
Success, Defined
Nancy this also resonates with me. In fact I’ve been so distracted by the amount of distractions that my focus is diluted at best. I remember you getting me to do a tolerance list and then challenging me to blast them. So I’ll do that with my distractions too.
Good luck and up the Vitamin C to kill that cold eh! Be well
Sharon