What Is Success?

WHAT IS SUCCESS?

How to define success is perhaps one of the most profound questions of all time.

It's a very personal thing. There's no one size fits all definition. It truly means different things to different people. It is something very much dependent on one's stages in life.

This morning, I, as well as many members of the Georgia Chapter of the National Speaker's Association, were treated to an exceptional, thought provoking talk by Gene Griessman, PhD. Gene received a rousing standing ovation when he was initially introduced and after completing his talk. The sound of clapping hands and the cheering of the crowd after his speech was absolutely incredible!

Gene is a seasoned professional. He is an actor, speaker, former professor, the author of multiple books, and the former host of the first talk show on TBS. During his tenure with TBS and CNN, Gene had the privilege of interviewing what was truly a list of Who's Who of American business, science, sports, and politics. These people included Ronald Reagan, Ted Turner, Ray Charles, Mary Kay, Sandra Day O’Connor, Aaron Copland, Tennessee Williams, Helen Gurley Brown, Frank Borman, Paul “Bear” Bryant, Hank Aaron, and scores of other leaders.

Based on his extensive background, and keen memory in interviewing so many luminaries, Gene is without a doubt, one of the world's foremost storytellers. This in what many now consider as the ultimate age of storytelling resulting from the proliferation of blogging and social media.

During this morning's talk, I felt as if I was actually sitting there with him as he as shared his recollection of one of his interviews with Hank Aaron. There was absolutely no equivocation in his discussion. It was matter of fact. It appeared that he had just interviewed Hank yesterday and not many decades ago.

It's not easy drawing an audience into your speech and making them feel as if they're with you. Gene is a master of his craft.

In addition to his ability to effectively embrace the audience, Gene's acting lessons have provided him with some truly unique skills, one of which his uncanny ability to play the role of Abraham Lincoln. When you hear him talk, you really get a sense that Abraham Lincoln is on stage. He is that good! Lincoln would be proud of the job he does. He plays him to a tee.

A Great Summary of the Definition of Success

As is the case with any impactful talk, you want to leave the audience with a message. Something which they will always remember. Something which can provide them with value in their lives moving forward. Gene did this with finesse this morning based on his many interviews with so many successful people over the years and asking them how they defined success.

What he learned from these many people had been pretty much articulated by American essayist and poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson, well over a century before. Emerson defined success as:

"To laugh often and much;

To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.

This is to have succeeded."

Does this align with your values?

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?