What success looks like for one person is very different for another. In the absence of creating our own definitions of success, we often take on society's definition. This usually involves credentials, status, power, or lots of financial wealth and material items. At the very least, we are conditioned to think that if someone has a lot of fancy things then they are "successful." But society is often misdirected, and things such as wealth, status and material possessions, while look cool, do nothing for our universal need for purpose, fulfillment and meaning. It's often a harsh reality that people have to discover for themselves.

Here are 20 truths about success - defined as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose that are rooted in science and psychology. Most people aren't aware of these truths, but they're essential to know:

1. Your IQ doesn't matter as much as you think.




5. Other people's advice is often just a regurgitation of what worked for them. If it doesn't feel right to you, don't take it.

6. You often need support rather than advice.


8. Knowing the impact you're having on others is a way to monitor your fulfillment.


10. Grit, never giving up, and having a Growth mindset - meaning you believe in your ability to grow and learn - are critical behaviors that will allow anyone to achieve their own career visions.

11. Happiness is a practice that everyone can learn.



14. Loving work is an essential part of creating the kind of success that won't cause stress, exhaustion, and burn out.

15. If work isn't fun, then something is broken.


17. Job seeking is fun when you're clear about who you are and what you want.

18. Comparing yourself to others is never helpful.


20. Failures are to be celebrated and learned from.

Published on: Apr 1, 2019