So often in life, we define success by the outcome for which we strive. We define success in school by the grades we receive. In sports, we define success as the final winner. We define success in our careers by promotions, raises, or accolades received. We define financial success based on the items we can purchase or the number on our bank statement. We define the success of our parenting, oftentimes, based on the behavior and success or happiness of our child(ren).
However, there are areas of life in which success is not so easily defined by the outcome. Relationship success can vary from person to person, relationship to relationship. To some, a successful relationship outcome is marriage. To others, a successful relationship is cohabitation or honesty and communication. And yet, to others, a successful relationship is maintaining a façade for their partner. And, the list can continue.
Life success can be even more difficult to define. There is no single definition to know when you have lived your life successfully. This is perhaps even more varied than how to define a successful relationship. Depending on one’s place in the life cycle, their definitions may vary and may take into account more or fewer contexts to define success. A child may define a successful life as having all the toys they desire. An older child may define a successful life as being popular in school. A young adult may define success by their relationship and/or career status. A middle aged adult may define success based on a number of factors including career, finances, relationship/family status, community involvement, as well as accruement of material goods. And so the trend continues.
However, why wait until the end to determine success? Why not focus on the journey, rather than singularly focus on the outcome? The journey often is more than it’s sum, or the outcome. The build-up of a relationship, the time shared and memories made are more than a wedding or commitment. The journey of the relationship is what is important. Becoming a parent is one aspect of parenthood. However, it is the journeyof being a parent, that is important—putting your child to bed, kissing their boo-boo’s, cuddling while watching a movie. It’s all those little moments along the way.
And so it is in life. Noticing and being present for the little moments that make up your life. The moments of peace and happiness along the way, as well as the moments that build our strength and character. Enjoying a cup of coffee early in the morning when all is quiet and calm. That moment while sitting in traffic when your favorite song comes on the radio. Laughing with a co-worker over your break. Comforting a friend in their time of need. Celebrating small milestones made by your children. Sharing a comfortable silence. Surviving a loss. Stealing that extra nap on the train. Staying up late to watch an old movie. Holding hands. Feeling the wind blow on your face. These are the minute moments that make up our day to day lives that lead to the success by which we define them.
Perhaps rather than defining our success by the outcome, we should define our success as our ability to be present for our life. For showing up and experiencing our day to day moments. The little moments as well as the big moments in life. The happy and peaceful moments, as well as the hard moments. Living each day with presence and purpose.
Karen Rosian, Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist