The Flowchart to Fulfillment
Cory Carlson
I help leaders win at BOTH work and home || 115+ Keynotes || Coached 190+ leaders || Author x 2 || Podcast Host of Top 1.5% Podcast 'Win at Home First' || Husband || Father x 3
I’ve been reflecting on an idea: the pursuit of success versus the pursuit of fulfillment.
The Endless Chase for Success
In my corporate career, I often chased success - titles, raises, and accolades. Each achievement felt satisfying briefly, but the milestone didn’t bring joy, so soon I wanted more. Basically, I kept moving the goalposts. Hitting a $100,000 annual salary was thrilling for about 6 months, then I wanted a $125,000 salary. The salary ladder was never ending and this cycle of striving left me feeling empty.
There is nothing wrong with success and achievements, but they should be byproducts and not the sole mission. For me, success was the sole mission.
Like many, I still feel the tug toward certain income levels or milestones, such as how many talks I do, or clients I land, or books I sell.
You probably can relate. You always wanted to be the region manager, and now you are, but you want to get to the division manager. You wanted to be the assistant coach, but now you are and you want the head coaching job.
This cycle of unfulfilling success continues until we break free.
A Better Path: Serve First
If chasing success leaves us empty, what’s the alternative?
Consider this flowchart:
Self -> Serve -> Success
We were created to serve each other - to help, to care, to encourage, and to love each other. Doing a quick Google search, you will see there are 59 occurrences of the phrase “one another” in the New Testament of the Bible, where we are commanded to serve each other. Here are just a few of them:
Fulfillment Through Service
When we are focused on serving others, we find fulfillment. You end the day knowing you made a positive impact.
领英推荐
The beautiful thing about this equation and as we see it happens in real life, as the more people you serve, it leads to more success.
Success isn’t always monetary. For example in our marriage, as I serve Holly, she doesn’t pay me, however, she serves me back. As a matter of fact, I can’t outserve Holly. As I do something nice for her, it seems she does two things nice for me!
Similarly, serving neighbors, friends, and coworkers brings joy and peace into your life, as well as theirs.
Now in business, serving others can often translate into financial rewards. As you serve your customers, you enhance retention, plus, increase referrals. This is a reminder to prioritize deepening existing customer and client relationships rather than solely pursuing new ones. Go deep instead of wide!
Shift Your Mindset
This week, I encourage you to focus on serving others instead of climbing the next rung on the success ladder! Embrace the fulfillment that comes from impacting those around you.
What's Next?!
When you're ready, here are some ways I can help:
? I have TWO new courses. Check them out here!
? Click here to listen to the Win at Home First?Podcast.
? Have you read my newest book,?'Rise and Go'? Learn more HERE!
? Are you looking for a change in your life? Or a business leader looking to invest in your team members? You recognize something is not working and you are seeking help. Now is your time for a breakthrough! Learn more about coaching.
? Are you looking for a speaker for your next event? I'm able to help.
Wealth Advisor at Wright LaHaie Jarvis Wealth Advisors
3 个月Simple but profound word, Cory. It's easy to take our eyes off what's important in our family and in our workplace. Jesus set the example by serving, and so should I. Thanks bro
Regional Sales Manager
3 个月Learning to be more a "Barnabas", has made all the difference...
Integrator, Celadora Studios
3 个月This one hit me deep! I can relate. I'm saving this one and coming back to it for sure. Powerful mindset shift. Thank you Cory Carlson!! I don't know how I found you here on Linked In and I randomly opened the email promoting this article -- I'm really glad I did!