Time to get your brainstorming on. Success in simple terms is accomplishing something you set out to do.  The timing of these “somethings” could be daily, weekly, or even annually.  The task could be business-related, or something to do with your personal life that has a positive influence on you and therefore your business.   You could start small and build from there.  What success is for one business owner, can be something completely different for another.

When we talk about success in business, our first thoughts may be that of a big bottom line, or a turnover worth bragging about.  Success can be more than just numbers in a profit and loss statement.  These are important and noteworthy, however success can be measured in so many alternative ways too.  The fact that you make it to the gym for 3 sessions a week, or that you manage school pickup before the principal calls you to check if you forgot your children, (ok, this is stretching it, but hopefully you get my point) is success for many.  Or perhaps your aim is to have a spontaneous holiday whenever you like. The point is, these wins can mean success to you, it doesn’t always have to be about money.

“Make your mark, be successful!”, is something I was told by a business executive when I started out as a business owner. Five years down the track, I have come to realise this needs to be in the context of me and my business. 

What you initially had in mind can change down the track – and that is okay.  Our businesses and our lives change, so it makes sense for our ideas of success in our world to change.  Just make sure that you’re not changing your definition because you’re comparing your success to the person next to you.

When I worked in large corporate, I was aiming for a seat around the executive table and to be a general manager that everyone was in awe of.  Years passed, and my aspirations of greatness completely morphed and changed.  Success showed itself as the opportunity to work alongside a like-minded business partner in which we now provide employment for other women.  Definitely winning!

So, isn’t it about time to celebrate your accomplishments and let yourself realise that you are successful?  In the context of you and your business, all wins are important, and deserve your attention.  If you’re open, honest & positive every day – isn’t that already success?  It’s about time as women that we brought some positivity and personalisation to what success means to us. Don’t forget to  share these successes with those around you – even if you’re using a different bench mark. Perhaps you’ll inspire the next woman (or man) over from you to strive for their own version of success too.