Success – How do you define it? Part 2.

I am sure that there must be a million and one ways to define “Success”. Each of us will define it differently depending on which area of our life we are referring to. Many of us have obtained some level of success in our personal lives and career. What if you had to identify the components or “building blocks” that helped you in your successes? Regardless of what you do for a living, there are some factors we would all be able to agree upon.

Why am I trying to “break-down” the components to success? Recently, I came across the late John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success:

[Coach Wooden's Site]

Looks familiar doesn’t it? Although we all may have seen different forms of this, the layout is consistent. I’ve noticed companies change the boxes’ titles and their respective description to suit the industry or company culture. The common denominator: a set of attributes that build a layer upon layer – each bringing you upward, closer toward success. The most interesting part of the pyramid, is that the “corner stones” are “Industriousness”(hard work) and “Enthusiasm”(enjoyment). I don’t know why I feel that it is easier for me to work hard than to enjoy what I do. After all, it’s only work… right? I shouldn’t say that. I do enjoy the daily human interaction in an efficient work environment. When the people are team-players and understand what it means to get things done together.

Notice how on the outside frame of the pyramid, there are ten “virtues” that build the perimeter.

What is very interesting is that “Faith” and “Patience” are at the top – right before success. It would seem that after you have established all the building blocks below them and are “fighting the good fight” – now, all you need to is believe in your values and allow time to play its part. Funny enough, “good things come to those who wait” was one of my favorite quotes when I was younger. Recently, I feel like there is no such thing as “waiting”. Time flies by regardless. Whatever I can do “in parallel” I do it… and often. No doubt, having faith is part of the renewal process (See “The 7^th Habit”) that allows you to be ready to keep working hard and “sawing those trees”.

Before I end this entry, let's take a second look a quote that is quite fitting:

“Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming”

-John Wooden

Notice that “peace of mind” is how Mr. Wooden defined success – not “the thrill” or “the rush”. I am sure many of us would correlate exhilaration or a “high” when we finally succeed at getting what we want. However, what we want is not necessarily what we really need to be truly successful. Study the pyramid – do the blocks give you what you need to succeed? How much of it applies to your life right now?