What You Got Going On BIG?

We live in a culture that celebrates success. I know many people who avoid LinkedIn, feeling it’s a platform where people only share their achievements and accolades. I used to be that way too, posting only about awards and milestones, rarely sharing the tough times, the valleys, and moments of despair. It’s a vicious cycle, driven by a culture of constant pursuit, often leaving us feeling like impostors when the spotlight dims.

In John C. Maxwell 's 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership , he reminds us in the Law of Significance that “one is too small a number to achieve greatness.” Success is about adding value to ourselves, but significance is about adding value to others.

But what is the difference between success and significance? Here are a few thoughts to consider:

• Success focuses on self; Significance focuses on others
• Success focuses on wealth; Significance focuses on impact
• Success focuses on fame; Significance focuses on influence
• Success focuses on comfort; Significance focuses on service
• Success feels empty; Significance feels fulfilling
• Success focuses on achievement; Significance focuses on legacy

I now notice things I never paid attention to before: the flowers on my walk, the young deer in my backyard with its mother feeding on the grass, the smile on someone’s face, and the eyes of a displaced person at Penn Station asking for help during my commute. These are the moments that bring life to Life.

It’s not always about the big achievements that may or may not come true. It’s about the little beautiful things that simply are true. Personally, climbing the mountain isn’t what it’s cracked up to be. I’ve done it many times, and I’m thankful for the climb because it has made me stronger and wiser. I have greatly benefited from personal and professional success, and I appreciate the growth and opportunities it has provided me.

However, feeling the need to scale another mountain just to prove something to myself or others is the Great Lie. The climb looks and feels different for me today. I know that I’m enough. God loves me. That is all the “big” I need.

Let me be clear on one point - I’m not against striving for success—far from it. Success has its place and its rewards. But I invite you to consider what success means in your own life. Is there room to embrace a more evolved version of success, one that includes personal fulfillment, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on others?

So, my Muses, what do you have going on that’s “big”?

Go forth and be great today. I am rooting for you, always.

Musically yours,

Amani D.

You can always find me The NORTH by Female Founder Collective Book a session with today.