When we look at past pictures of ourselves, we may feel disappointed if it seems that we used to be better looking, more fit, or generally superior to today. But at the time those pictures were taken, we probably didn’t consider ourselves to be our most stellar incarnation.
You are likely a better, smarter, and more experienced version today than you were previously. Remember that today is one of the “good old days” we’ll look back on.
[I wrote a song about this called “Good Times Are Now”.]
Success is extremely personal. Each of us has ideas on what it looks like. The simplest definition is: getting, doing, or becoming what you hoped for. The most critical step then is to define that in a way that’s most meaningful to you. As obvious as that sounds, it’s common for people to claim that their goal is to “lose weight”, when in reality they want to add muscle, or lose fat, or look great naked. If that’s what success means to you, own it. I have an extraordinary before and after picture of a woman who went on an intense fitness and nutrition regimen. The change is hard to believe. Even harder to process is the fact that her weight is the same in both pictures. If success meant losing weight, she failed. But in fact, she had a personal goal to “look great in a bikini.”
What would happen if you called a colleague and asked how you could help with what they’re working on? Or reached out to one person per day that you love and admire and told them so? Or let someone who’s struggling know that you’re in their corner? Selfishly, you’ll be sparking your own joy. Unselfishly, you’re making the world a slightly better place.
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Detroit, MI |
© 2025 by Steve Acho
