You don't have to be first, but you have to be good.

Who knows the Joneses? Surely you have met them. They are everything you are not. They drive better cars, and own bigger houses. Their lawn is always green even in a drought with water restrictions. Their dogs are well trained; you just saw their lab help bring groceries. In addition, they have 2.14 children in the Junior Olympics and were featured on the cover of Forbes, again!

If this describes you, please leave your details in the comments below!?

The concept of keeping up with the Joneses originated with the comic strip Keeping Up with the Joneses, created by Arthur R. "Pop" Momand in 1913. I don’t even think my grandmother was born. Mom??

Many of us fixate on being the first to achieve a particular goal or breakthrough. While being a first mover may come with its advantages, it is crucial to recognize that being good at what you do, for you, ultimately matters more. Taking charge of your destiny and defining success for yourself are essential steps in shaping your career development and personal growth.

Instead of keeping up with the Joneses, you could take Simon Sinek's approach he highlights in his book The Infinite Game. He talks about a worthy rival: someone who pushes you to improve. Let that rival be you. Yes, YOU! Here are a couple of steps on how to break that up:

1. Personal reflection: Take the time to reflect on what truly brings you fulfillment and satisfaction. Consider the aspects of your work that energize you and align with your values. Success should encompass not only professional achievements but also personal growth, work-life balance, and overall well-being.

2. Self-assessment: Identify your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and aspirations. This self-awareness will help you align your career choices with your true passions, allowing you to excel in areas where you have genuine talent and drive.

3. Setting goals: Once you clearly understand your aspirations, set realistic and achievable goals. Break them down into smaller milestones, enabling you to measure progress and stay motivated along the way—think Atomic Habits by James Clear.

4. Learning and development: Invest in your personal and professional development through continuous learning. Acquiring new skills, staying updated with industry trends, and expanding your knowledge base will enhance your competence and open doors to new opportunities. Access free learning portals and even Youtube channels to access content that can transform your thinking. Check out Ted Talks if you haven't already.

5. Networking and mentorship: Build a strong network of colleagues, mentors, and professionals who can provide guidance and support. Seek mentors who have achieved success in your desired field, as their experiences can provide valuable insights and help you navigate challenges.

6. Continuous evaluation: Regularly assess your progress and reassess your goals. Be open to adjusting your path as you gain new insights and perspectives. Remember, success is a journey, and it is essential to adapt and evolve along the way.

In today's dynamic and competitive world, it is increasingly important to shape your destiny proactively. Waiting for opportunities to come your way may limit your potential for growth and advancement. By taking charge of your career path, you become the architect of your future. But if you take away anything from this article, it is this: define your success or live for everyone else.

Chat with you Thursday at 18:30 CAT on Clubhouse and enjoy your week.

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