Success on OUR terms

Success on our terms

Research shows that women cite comparing themselves to others as a major factor holding them back in work. We sometimes get distracted by what other people are doing, especially on social media, where it looks as though everyone else is going so much faster than we are. Of course, it’s tempting to try and keep up - but that can see us chasing someone else’s ambitions and trying to get to where they are, instead of thinking about where we’re going.?

With that in mind, I’ve been thinking a lot about the idea of pace - how to stay on track when it comes to your own vision and go at your own speed. Run your own race: easy to say, but harder to actually step off the treadmill and do.?

For me, the key is to focus on your path - the one you have set for yourself and where you get to decide the speed, the stops and the destination - instead of getting swept along with everyone else. It's important to remind ourselves that we are all individuals and each of us has a unique journey. Embracing that is what will help us progress.?

What works for me, might not work for you - so explore different approaches, routines and environments until you find the things that spark your productivity and help you get into your own groove.?

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what you’re?not?achieving, rather than appreciating what you?are. So remember to celebrate your wins, however big or small, because they mean you’re moving forward. Make the time to mark those goals, because that’s how you can see real growth, overcome setbacks and understand how far you’ve actually come.

That’s the thing about goals: they’re yours! There’s no point being a passenger on someone else’s journey. Allowing their ambitions and pace to dictate what you do, won’t get you to where you want to go.

All of this is made more possible when you’re surrounded by like-minded people, something that’s proven to make us feel more fulfilled. So seek out your tribe: the people who understand your dreams, will champion your successes and offer encouragement as you navigate your path. It’s your unique journey, but one that can be powered by connections and conversations. We can lift one another up as individuals and learn from our community, rather than comparing ourselves to them.

I believe that the more we embrace doing things at our own pace, the more harmonious our working lives will be - as individuals and a collective. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that owning your journey is the best way to work towards your dreams.