Redefining success: a roadmap for business leaders
Paula Fleming, CMSO, discusses redefining success in 2025, moving beyond traditional markers like revenue and titles to prioritize purpose, well-being, and continuous growth, both personally and professionally. (January 29, 2025)
As business leaders, we're often asked, "What does success mean to you?" The answers tend to be predictable: hitting revenue targets, market dominance, climbing the corporate ladder. But what happens when you reach those milestones and find yourself still yearning for something more?
I'm turning 48 soon – nearly 50! – and it's got me thinking. It's a time for reflection, for taking stock of where I am versus where I thought I'd be. And you know what? My definition of success has undergone a radical transformation.
It's no longer about the corner office or the bonus (though those are nice perks!). Instead, it's about the impact I'm making, the legacy I'm building, and the personal fulfillment I derive from my work and life.
The Old Roadmap: Outdated and Unfulfilling
For years, I chased the traditional markers of success. Long hours, relentless ambition, and prioritizing work above all else. But somewhere along the way, I realized that this model was leaving me empty.
It's a common trap. We get so caught up in the pursuit of external validation that we forget to nurture our inner selves and our relationships.
A New Roadmap for 2025: Purpose, Impact, and Well-being
As we head into 2025, I challenge you to redefine success on your own terms. Here's a roadmap to guide you:
Connect to Your Purpose: What truly matters to you? What impact do you want to make on the world? Aligning your work with your values brings a sense of meaning and fulfillment that external achievements alone cannot provide.
Prioritize Well-being: Burnout is real. Success is unsustainable if it comes at the cost of your physical and mental health. Make time for self-care, nurture your relationships, and prioritize your well-being.
Embrace Continuous Growth: The journey of success is ongoing. Never stop learning, evolving, and challenging yourself. Embrace new experiences and step outside your comfort zone.
Celebrate the Small Wins: Success isn't just about reaching the summit. It's about savoring the journey and acknowledging the small victories along the way.
Redefine Achievement: Perhaps your biggest achievement isn't a promotion but mentoring a colleague, fostering a strong team, or creating a positive work environment.
My Personal Definition of Success
Today, I define success by the positive influence I have on my community, the strong relationships I've built, and the sense of purpose I find in my work at the Better Business Bureau. And yes, the fact that my kids are thriving and haven't "ended" me yet is a testament to some kind of success!
Let's face it, life is too short to chase someone else's definition of success. Take the time to define what truly matters to you. Create a roadmap that aligns with your values and priorities. And remember, success is a journey, not a destination.
Connect with me on social media and share within our community what success means to YOU in 2025?
