Recently, a new acquaintance caught me off guard with a simple question that I had trouble answering. She asked me to define "success." I fumbled so badly that it motivated me to go home, sit down, and do some serious soul searching. After all, how could I truly be successful if I had trouble defining it? So, after 3-hours, here's what I came up with:

                                              


      <> To have no regrets.

      <> To have enthusiasm when I wake up and peace of mind when I go to sleep.

      <> To have true friends.

      <> To make the most of my talent and intellect.

      <> To have love, fun, and passion in my life.

      <> To use my unique gifts in a way that makes a positive difference in peoples' lives.

      <> To have financial freedom and the ability to choose my own path.

      <> To be healthy in body, mind and spirit.

      <> To take advantage of all opportunities and face all fears.

      <> To marry the gap between "who I am" and "what I do."

      <> To base my decisions on truth vs. fear or guilt.

      <> To inspire and motivate others.

      <> To make people laugh, including myself.

      <> To live life with the understanding that "getting there" isn't half the fun, it's most of it.

      <> And, finally, to see "death" not as a Grim Reaper, but rather a welcomed sleep
           after a very long, satisfying day.




Strangely, I never saw the person again. And, as I thought about it, it occurred to me that maybe I didn't need to. This stranger had given me a unique gift and perhaps that was the purpose of our meeting. So now, in turn, I offer it to you ... the suggestion to define, in your own words, what it means to be "successful." And, if this inspires you, share it with a friend or two who might appreciate it.

(c) 2009 John Follis See more articles from John.