Redefining Success: Beyond the Career Identity
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Redefining Success: Beyond the Career Identity


It's easy to think that our jobs are the only thing that makes us successful in today's busy world. A lot of the time, we connect who we are to the jobs we have, the companies we work for, and the career goals we reach. Even though professional achievements are important, it's also important to take a step back and ask: What is real success? How do we describe who we are?

In its best form, identity is a gem with many faces. Our job names or the roles we play at work are not the only things that define us. Our ideals, passions, beliefs, and the core of who we are as people make up our identity. Still, a lot of us get stuck in the idea that success is all about the job, and this can be a huge cause of stress and vulnerability.

Think about this: What if we thought of success as a whole idea that goes beyond our nine-to-five jobs? Why don't we start figuring out who we are by looking at our events, relationships, and personal growth as a whole?

Finding a good balance between our personal and work lives is what I think makes us successful. It's about pursuing our interests and building ties that matter. It means making sure that our actions, both at work and outside of work, are in line with our core beliefs and ideals.

So, how can we change how we think about success and embrace a more complete sense of who we are? Here are some important steps:

  • Self-Reflection: You should think about who you are besides your job title. What do you believe in? What makes you truly happy and satisfied? What do you like to do for fun and relaxation when you're not working?
  • Accept what makes you different: Realize that your identity is unique and can't be copied by anyone else. Be proud of who you are and let that show in everything you do.
  • Set your own goals: Set goals for yourself that are in line with your values, just like you set goals for your job. These goals could be about health, relationships, growth as a person, going around the world, helping others who need help, helping animals and so much more.
  • Grow your relationships: Spend some time building strong bonds with family, friends, and teachers. These connections can help you stay strong and positive as you go through your trip. Especially during those tough times, surrounding yourself with your loved ones will remind you of the value you bring to society.
  • Life has many ups and downs, so learn to deal with them. Accepting change and being able to adapt is important for your personal and career growth.
  • Continuous Learning: Always look for ways to learn new things and get better. Getting involved in things outside of your job can be very rewarding. I know folks who pursued Interior design and loved it or someone who moved to India to be with family rather than pursue a promising career.

It's important to remember that our job is only one part of the diamond that is our character as we go through the rough terrain of life. We can live more peaceful, meaningful, and purpose-driven lives if we broaden our definition of success to include all parts of our lives.

So, the next time you need to change careers or have a tough time looking for work, remember that your personality and success go far beyond your work. Accept what makes you different, stay true to your values, and live a life that fits with who you really are.

Let's start this path of self-discovery and change what it means to be successful together. ??

Alan J Cohen

Program Director - US National Science Foundation - Energy Leader and Geoscientist with Expertise in Oil and Gas and Renewables

1 年

I am grateful for my faith, family, pets, health and job?

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