Defining Success on Your Own Terms

In today’s fast-paced world, there’s often an unspoken rule: success means climbing the ladder. Becoming the CEO, COO, VP, or another high-ranking title is seen as the ultimate goal. But here’s the truth—you and you alone get to define what success looks like for you.

If you don’t dream of being a top executive, that’s perfectly okay. If you’re happy being a sales rep, a sales manager, or thriving in any role you’re in, that is success too.

Breaking Free from the Pressure to Climb

The pressure to continuously move up the ranks is everywhere. Society often equates progress with titles, money, and power. But is that what truly matters to you? Here are some reminders to keep you grounded:

• It’s your life. You get to decide how you spend your time and energy.
• Contentment is powerful. If you’re satisfied with where you are, don’t let external expectations push you into a role that doesn’t fit your vision.
• More isn’t always better. More responsibility often comes with more stress, and it’s okay to value balance over ambition.

Turning Down the “Big” Jobs

Sometimes, the best decisions are the ones where you say “no” to what looks good on paper but doesn’t align with your priorities. For instance:

• Choosing time with loved ones, hobbies, or passions over a bigger paycheck.
• Turning down a high-stress job because it doesn’t fit the life you want to live.

Personal Example: The author reflects on turning down prestigious roles to have more time with their horses and dogs. That choice didn’t require an apology because it was right for them.

Redefining Success

Success isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. It could mean:

• Having a fulfilling job you enjoy, even if it’s not a leadership position.
• Spending quality time with family or pursuing hobbies that bring you joy.
• Prioritising health, balance, or personal passions over career titles.

The key is to align your choices with your values, not with what others expect of you.

Permission to Say No

You don’t have to aim for the CEO title—or any title you don’t want. Give yourself permission to:

• Decline opportunities that don’t excite you.
• Stay in a role where you feel fulfilled.
• Prioritise what truly matters to you, whether it’s family, hobbies, or a specific lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Life is not a race to the top of a corporate ladder. It’s about creating a life that feels meaningful and authentic to you. Success isn’t about the title on your business card—it’s about living a life that aligns with your values, passions, and happiness.

So, if you want to step off the never-ending climb and savour where you are right now, know that it’s more than okay. In fact, it’s empowering.

Remember: You get to decide. And that’s the most important title of all.