Measures of Success

Here’s a fun perspective check that I was reminded of over the weekend while chatting with Chris Johnson (@chrisjohnsonthept), my mate and business partner.  See how you do.

1. List the five most wealthy people in your city
2. List the last five men’s and women’s marathon gold medalists 
3. List 5 people who have won the Pulitzer prize in the last 2 decades
4. List the top-3 in your AG for Boston, IM 70.3 worlds and Kona

Did you score 100%, able to recall each of these individuals and their accomplishments? Okay, fair enough… that’s a hard ask. How about these next few questions?

1. List 3 family members who would do anything to help you if you asked (e.g. like help you move across the country from NC to WA)
2. List 5 people who would grab a beer/coffee (drink of choice) with you at the drop of a hat if given the option (and maybe even pick up the tab)
3. List 5 teachers/coaches who have impacted your personal and professional development
4. List the 5 people who text/call/message you the most throughout the week with memes and pics, words of affirmation, and subtle reminders of your intrinsic value and worth. 
   

A bit easier, right? 

As aspiring as wealthy, affluential, best-in-the-world individuals and athletes are their accomplishments and headlines are fleeting. By every measure of success it is easy to say “wow, they’ve made it.” But have they? 

I don’t know about you, but I have profound respect for and am in awe of those who have fostered life-long friendships vs. accumulated 10k+ followers on social media… 

…or have relationships and marriages that have withstood multiple ups and downs… 
…and have families with whom they love to spend time with and who love spending time with them in return… 
…who give back to their communities and neighbors through intentional, and often selfless, acts of kindness…
…or have continued to swim, bike, run, lift, and improve their overall health and wellness in spite of a 1.5+ yr global pandemic and canceled races… and the list goes on. 

The pursuit of excellence in business, athletics, the arts or any other sector of life is noble and good. But the most influential people in my life are the ones who care the most about the well-being of me, my family, and those in their community. They don’t always make the most money, have the most fame, accumulate the most followers, go top 3 AG every race, or achieve the greatest accolades.  But from my point of view they are the most successful people I know.  

(Ref. lectures by Terry Small, “The Brain Guy")