WHAT IS SUCCESS?

I watched a video today that has been ruminating in my mind about values, communication, and people in general. In my field, as a recruiter working in global IT recruitment for well over a decade in the US and UK, I have met many people who would certainly be termed as 'successful' by outsiders, looking in. But what is success anyway?

Is it money?

Is it your job title?

Is it professional accolades?

Is it beauty?

Is it the size of your house?

Is it the holidays you take?

Your financial investments?

Your beautiful spouse?

For some of you, it certainly may be - and if you immerse yourself online in just about any form of social media, it probably compounds that assumption.

NOT FOR ME

Those are all just 'things', at least I think so.

FOR ME - SUCCESS IS THE FOLLOWING

Loving well, and being loved in return

(this could be a spouse, child, friend, or your crazy cat)

Going to sleep happy, and waking the same way

Being appreciated, and knowing I have value

Living a life free of anxiety or stress

Being fully at peace

Not hunting for the next, best... whatever it is

Trusting myself, and knowing others do too

Being authentic

Bringing my true self, to every part of my life

Not hiding

SO WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH JOB HUNTING?

Well, on paper 'not alot' but in practice, it's everything.

Success for many seems to be focused on accumulation of status, money, homes, friends, and 'things'.

But no-one, if lucky enough to know when the time comes that they're dying, lies on their death bed and thinks 'gosh, I had a really fat bank account'. They remember picnics with loved ones, in-jokes with family or friends, experiences, wonder and joy that was shared.

Make sure, I encourage you, to find a career, a field of work, and a purpose, that makes you whole. That fills your soul, brings you joy first thing on a Monday morning, and where you can be you. I believe much of the stress in modern life comes from the constant striving and competing against others. It's not worth it. Enjoy your life, get yourself into a job you adore - and then, practically by accident, all the things that matter to you will fall into place.

And maybe you'll fall asleep as peacefully as I do every night.

If you want help to find a new role which will make your heart and soul sing, then have a look at the CV and interview coaching services I have on offer.