personal-development

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Success vs. Success

The general acceptance of success is defined as…

“the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted…the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status”.

The most interesting question is the simplest of all “What does success mean to you?”

Success is not the same for all people…the most common perception is…the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status.  The other side of the coin could be described as self-confident, contentment, awareness, fulfillment…knowing “who you are” is more important than “how other people perceive you”.  We are all wired differently and it’s not that either of these two or correct or incorrect…and if a person possesses a combination of these…so be it. I believe that personal success is only obtainable when you “reach” an understanding within yourself.

Here lies the purpose for this thought:

We are taught at an early age to strive and plan for success…and specific people were pointed out as examples that had reached that plateau…only to find out later in life that some of those examples were the most insecure, unhappy and self-destructive individuals that you could  possibly imagine.  Perception does not always reflect reality…contrary to the over used phrase of “perception is reality”.

Surface observations do not always reveal the truth.  It reminds me of the old line “are you going to believe me or you’re lying eyes?”  If you judge an individual only by fame or fortune rather than by ones’ self contentment …then you may be judging a false sense of success.  I have seen individuals that have achieved monetary wealth and fame…and yet still strive for other people’s approval and acceptance because of their own insecurity.  Success is not a group-awareness but self-awareness. In my opinion the more important question.. as it pertains to “success” is simple… “Have you achieved self-confidence and happiness within yourself”?

It is never too late in life to achieve success…sometimes the achievement is the “discovery” not the intended journey.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.

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“Attitude” good or bad?

Attitude …is defined as an opinion or general feeling about something…a physical posture, either conscious or unconscious, especially while interacting with others…an arrogant or assertive manner or stance assumed as a challenge or for effect.

Attitude is usually perceived as “good” or “bad”…if one appears positive, happy, cheerful, friendly, etc…(You get the point) then he/she is probably perceived as one with a “good attitude”.  If one is assertive, loud, unafraid, determined, then one would probably be perceived as one with a “bad attitude”. Ones’ perception does not always reflect reality.  Whether you agree or disagree with the content of the message or messenger …it will usually influence your perception. Don’t be afraid to have  what could be perceived as “bad attitude”…without it… complacency, fear and political correctness can stand in the way of progress and change which can result in stagnation and eventually erosion…nothing remains the same. The next time you judge someone’s attitude (and we all do) ask yourself “Am I looking at a “hothead”…or a “passionate” person with convictions?  Good or bad? Assertions of the “right attitude” will have a purpose and a goal to reach a destination.

Attitude and Diplomacy do not always go hand and hand.  Diplomacy can be a long drawn out process with pandering and postponement. My attitude is much like the “old gentlemen” when asked by the store clerk if he wanted the extended warranty with his purchase…he said, “Son, I don’t need the extended warranty…at my age I don’t even buy “green” bananas anymore”.  Time is of the essence….cut to the chase…say what you mean and mean what you say… and say it with passion.

“Good” or “Bad” is not the question … the question is; is it the right “attitude”?

Footnote:  My wife forward an email one day that I thought was appropriate to this article…it read  “Don’t get confused between my personality and my attitude.  My personality is who I am, my attitude depends on who you are“.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented is either my opinion or information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and factual; however, I make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. Any errors, including misuse or misspelling of words is either due to my fingers hitting the wrong keys, oversight, or my own ignorance.