Success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the lives we touch.
Written by Stu Crumb
Traditional definitions of success often revolve around personal accomplishments, accolades, and material wealth. But a deeper and more fulfilling understanding of success lies in the impact we have on the lives of others. The idea that “success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the lives we touch” prompts us to reflect on the true meaning of success and reassess our priorities. I encourage you to do so.
change of perspective
Traditionally, success has been equated with personal accomplishments such as high salaries, prestigious positions, and academic degrees. These milestones are important, but they don’t cover the entire meaning of success. In contrast, a focus on the lives we touch encourages a shift in perspective that values ​​empathy, compassion, and social service over mere personal gain. It challenges us to think about the legacy we leave behind. It can be measured by kindness, guidance, and the positive change we make in others.
Ripple effect of kindness
When we think about the lives we touch, we must recognize the ripple effects of our actions. A single act of kindness can make all the difference in a person’s course. For example, a mentor who spends time mentoring a young professional can help shape that person’s future, foster growth, and encourage them to give in return. This creates a positive chain reaction, with each inspired person uplifting the others.
Consider my mother, who was a first grade teacher. She took extra time to help struggling students and delivered food and clothing to schools to help children in need. The knowledge and support she provided will stay with her students for a lifetime. Many of them may go on to achieve great things, but they attribute part of their success to their mother’s unwavering belief in them. This shows how the true impact of our actions can reverberate endlessly across generations, reinforcing the idea that inspiring lives goes far beyond individual accomplishments. I’m doing it.
Redefining success in your community
Communities thrive when individuals prioritize collective well-being over their own self-interest. Successful communities are often ones where members actively contribute to each other’s lives and foster an environment of support and collaboration. When companies adopt this mindset, they create a culture that not only drives profits, but also improves the quality of life for employees, customers, and community members.
Companies that engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR) embody this principle. By addressing social issues and investing in community development, these organizations go beyond traditional measures of success. The impact is seen in improved education, improved healthcare, and more sustainable practices. In this context, success becomes synonymous with social impact, not just financial gain.
The role of empathy and connection
At the heart of what makes life exciting is the ability to empathize and connect with others. Empathy allows us to understand the experiences and emotions of those around us. When we approach our interactions with genuine interest and compassion, we foster meaningful connections that enrich both our lives and the lives of those we meet. In the workplace, leaders who practice empathy can create an environment where employees feel valued and understood, leading to increased collaboration, innovation, and retention. Organizations that prioritize connection over competition not only improve employee morale but also foster a culture of loyalty and mutual support. This ultimately leads to increased productivity and stronger organizational identity.
Personal stories that influenced me
Personal stories often reveal the profound impact we can have on others. For example, consider the story of my father-in-law, who spent 50 years of his life helping the homeless and underprivileged in downtown Kansas City. As volunteers serving meals at homeless shelters or mentoring children after school, these people positively impact countless lives and embody the essence of success. Similarly, consider healthcare workers who spend long hours caring for patients. Their commitment to healing and supporting individuals during difficult times exemplifies how success is intertwined with compassion. The words of gratitude expressed by patients and families demonstrate the deep meaning of their work and reinforce the idea that true success goes beyond personal accolades.
the legacy we left behind
After all, the measure of success is deeply rooted in the legacy we leave behind. When you look back on your life at the end of your journey, you’re unlikely to count the awards you’ve won or the positions you’ve held. Instead, we will remember the relationships we built, the people we helped, and the love we shared. As we strive towards our personal ambitions, we must remember the importance of lifting others up in the process. Every interaction is an opportunity to make a difference. The choices we make today, whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, or simply being there for a friend in need, shape the lives of those we interact with and ultimately determine our success.
The assertion that “success is not measured by our accomplishments, but by the lives we touch” is a powerful reminder of what really matters. It asks us to embrace a broader understanding of success that values ​​empathy, connection, and community impact over individual accolades. By focusing on uplifting others, we not only enrich their lives, but also find fulfillment in our own lives.
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Stu CrumbHis heroics in college football earned him national attention as an exemplary student-athlete. Tagged as a winner with natural leadership talent, he held top positions at Texaco, Shell Oil, Jiffy Lube and Bridgestone, and struck deals with activist investor Carl Icahn and other heavyweights. It has become internationally famous. In his new book, Crum reveals strategies for success in faith, family, and business as he develops a simple, dynamic game plan he calls “Intentional Living.” AIM FOR THE UPRIGHTS Intentional Strategies for Faith, Family, and Business Success (July 9, 2024). Learn more here www.stucrum.com.
Source: Spiritual Media Blog – www.spiritualmediablog.com
