Success can be elusive. And, hard won.
Here are some tips families can use at any time of year as they aspire toward successful outcomes.
REVALUATE YOUR SENSE OF WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
“You can learn to define your own success, and the path you want to take to get there. It may be by improving on something you can already do, or by progressing a little rather than a lot. Success is not necessarily about grades. Or prizes. Or applause. Success means something different to everyone. If you’re willing to challenge your understandings of success, and you don’t focus exclusively on big accomplishments, you’ll experience more successes—and greater confidence.”
~ Bust Your BUTS, p. 34
Embrace opportunities—including “little experiences” and “small steps.” These can be transitional, and they can intensify and become affirming in unanticipated ways. Above all, stay openminded.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Sometimes people worry about outcomes, or the potential remoteness of success, and feel discouraged or overwhelmed. Life is hectic, filled with demands, distractions, responsibilities, and ever-evolving occurrences. In the context of that, it’s important tostay calm. Cool heads prevail. Reflection can fuel self-confidence, creativity, equilibrium, and productivity. Take time to relax, play, reflect, galvanize purpose, tune out tumult, and determine a reasonable pace.Downtime is akin to recharging a battery, and getting primed to start anew.
WHAT’S MOTIVATING?
Artist Pablo Picasso said, “Action is the foundational key to all success.” Think about what might propel you and your kids into action mode. Perhaps choice? Or maybe creative expression, challenge, competition, progress, encouragement, more connectivity, or fun? Pleasure that accrues from learning processes and accomplishments can also be motivating. Possible motivators will differ among individuals, and likely fluctuate depending upon circumstances. However, if something connects meaningfully with a person’s experiences, interests, or desires, that can be motivating, and lead to success.
SET REASONABLE GOALS
Goals provide an impetus for learning and growth.Aspiring toward a goal, and approaching or reaching it,can be satisfying, and elicit feelings of success. The best goals are relevant, timely, and attainable. Takethings one step at a time, adjust as necessary, and be patient. If you encounter roadblocks, don’t give up. Ask for help. Look for alternative avenues. Or collaborate with others. Tap your creative energy and personal strengths!
LAST WORDS
“Opportunity knocks in different ways (including softly, harshly and unexpectedly)—but you have to be willing to answer that knock.”
~ Bust Your BUTS, p. 138
Success has different guises, so it may not be easily recognized. Success requires effort and resilience, as well as knowledge, and support. Consider how family members can assist and inspire. Be open to building upon possibilities. Take pride in the successes you achieve enroute to any endpoints. Above all, have faith in yourself as you strive to move forward today, tomorrow, and throughout the months ahead.
