25 Signs You’re Succeeding At Life (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It)

Whenever I see posts like “3 easy ___” or 25 Signs You’re ______”, I am skeptical at best. Life rarely fits into neat little lists that are supposed to let you know anything about yourself that is productive or of substance. I do appreciate those who take the time to catalog information easily digestible. This is where the post titled, “25 Signs You’re Succeeding At Life (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It)” by Shannon Kaiser feels like it might at least point in the direction of what succeeding at life may feel like for a significant group of people. Not all listed apply to all of us, but I think there is value in reflecting on this particular list to see where you are seeing progress and where to focus more energy and attention.

 

25 Signs You’re Succeeding At Life (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It)

“We’ve all had days, weeks, months and — for some — even years of dark days and depression. Whether we fall into ruts of self-sabotage, loneliness or insecurity, leading a happy, joyful life can sometimes feel like a chore.

I often tell my students and coaching clients they’re doing so much better than they give themselves credit for.

Most of us are so busy trying to dodge life bullets, we forget to stop and appreciate the little victories.

Consider for a moment that you’re doing a tremendous job at life. Living isn’t an easy thing to do, but it can be enjoyable when we start to see the good instead of focusing on the bad.

You are actually living a good life by recognizing these 25 signs:

25 Signs You’re Succeeding At Life

1. Your relationships are less dramatic than they use to be.

2. You may not have as much money as you want but you live a rich life.

3. You’re not afraid to ask for help and support.

4. Where you live feels like home.

5. You’ve raised your standards.

6. You let go of things that don’t make you feel good.

7. You have moments where you appreciate who you see in the mirror.

8. You’re working on limiting your inner critic and consciously choosing more positive thoughts.

9. You’ve learned that setbacks and failure are part of self-growth.

10. You have a support system that includes people who would do anything for you.

11. You hear “I love you” often, from friends, family or a partner.

12. You’ve accepted what you can’t change, but change what you can’t accept.

13. You don’t complain much, but instead focus on solutions.

14. You don’t blame your parents, and accept them for who they are.

15. You stopped caring about what others think of you.

16. You’re happy for your exes when they move on.

17. You can celebrate others’ successes.

18. You allow yourself to feel your feelings and are comfortable sharing them.

19. You have passions that you pursue.

20. You’re able to accept compliments without deflecting.

21. You have things to look forward to.

22. You have goals that have come true.

23. You have empathy for others.

24. You feel connected to your work.

25. You love deeply and open yourself up to be loved by others.”

 

I think #23, “You have empathy for others,” is interesting as a benchmark for succeeding in life. I agree, but I think many Americans would not use this as a means of discerning if they are succeeding in life. In fact, it is possible that the American focus on self would largely omit most folks who cultivate an empathetic mind and spirit to determine if they are succeeding at life. Of course, this is unfortunate; having empathy for others is essential to our growth and development, as well as our society as a whole.

 

“No matter who you are, you find yourself thinking about what success is, and, how you can lay the foundation for it — personally and professionally. All three writers on this post see this issue through the same view. We believe that success is ever changing, and evolving. What may be defined as success for one person today can easily change a few weeks or years later. There is no mold or equation for success as it is defined differently for everyone. To achieve it, one should use their strengths and values, while recognizing that obstacles and setbacks are also a part of the process.” What Is Success?

When I was younger, I was desperate to please others and make them proud of me. Succeeding in life was defined by them and Mother Culture, not my consciousness and Inner Calling. When we know why we are here, succeeding in life is clear and has nothing to do with what others expect of us or what society or family defines as succeeding in life.

 

More posts you may enjoy:

Doubt

A Sober and Healthy Life

17 Lies We Need to Stop Teaching Girls

Does Kindness Make You More Attractive? Research Says Yes!

Things Your Couples Counselor Already Knows About Your Relationship

Do Something Good For Someone Else and Don’t Get Caught – Kindness

 

What do you think about 25 Signs You’re Succeeding At Life (Even If It Doesn’t Feel Like It)? Is there one that stands out to you as most critical or that needs to be omitted from the list?

 

Michael Swerdloff

Providence Holistic Counseling Services

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