In your opinion, what does it mean to be successful?

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 11:28:22 -0400

This photo is from business standpoint, but I felt it was perfect for the Military profession too.

Response by TSgt David L. made Jul 21 at 2015 11:29 AM

TSgt David L. — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 11:29:43 -0400

It will be different for everyone, but meeting the goals and benchmarks would be success in my book.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 21 at 2015 11:52 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 11:52:36 -0400

In my case, it means: giving to others. In turn, others respect me, honor me, etc.
But success also means to me: humility, Godliness, 'respecting others more than they respect me', self-respect, leading, selflessness, confidence, self-discipline, gentleness, kindness (All of the Fruits of the Spirit), perseverance, etc.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 11:55 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 11:55:37 -0400

My perspective has changed over the years.
I used to think it meant achieving my goals. And I did, for the most part, professionally.
Then I thought it meant being a good husband. And I was - but not good enough.
Now I think that the best measuring stick I can have is to have my children meet their potential. To give them the tools to make great decisions. To see them happy and healthy and successful.
Nothing else would make me prouder.

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Jul 21 at 2015 12:35 PM

SCPO David Lockwood — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 12:35:53 -0400

Providing for my family and creating memories.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jul 21 at 2015 4:52 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 16:52:21 -0400

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member Going deep on you here partner! Some will totally think I’m off a bubble – maybe I am! If you are measuring your own success then it's in the eyes of the beholder; its what you personally feel in your heart and mind that dictates what success you have reached and what type of humility for that success you will displayed. For some, its just knowing you've done the very best you can in life, for and with your family, providing for them, getting your children through school and college and off on their own success story. For other's it could just be a simple feeling of internal gratitude. Those who abuse and flaunt success are usually very unhappy inside, not always but they are missing that internal fulfillment because they are surrounded with reminders of their success (possessions, creature comforts, etc.). I'm not saying that’s a bad thing. I'm just saying they are missing that inner peaceful feeling of self-satisfaction - I did everything I could and in my eyes and God's eyes I was successful. I know a little deep, but that is my perception of how “you” know you were a success!

Response by A1C Charles D Wilson made Jul 21 at 2015 9:55 PM

A1C Charles D Wilson — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 21:55:13 -0400

Ohh great. Ya really want to know? One word for me.
Happiness!!!!
Being happy at work home and having fun. Even being disabled right now and not being able to work...it is hard to be happy trying to cover bills but God makes my day.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jul 23 at 2015 12:37 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 12:37:00 -0400

The graphic accompanying this challenge well illustrates the path to success and obstacles. However, it doesn't seem to me to illustrate the issue. I'm going to allow the Talmudic (Jewish) scholars to speak for me on this one. I don't believe I could say it better...

http://www.simpletoremember.com/articles/a/pirkei-avos-who-is-rich/

Who Is Rich? (part 3) Pirkei Avos | Ethics Of The Fathers

Response by SPC Andrew Griffin made Jul 23 at 2015 12:39 PM

SPC Andrew Griffin — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 12:39:00 -0400

Doing ALL things for the GLORY of God! Only what you do for Christ will Last!

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Jul 23 at 2015 5:00 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Thu, 23 Jul 2015 17:00:34 -0400

There are many definitions. Mine is one where I complete my mission or task and do it in an appropriate length of time. I also self evaluate and see how those who work with and for me did. If we all contributed meaningfully it was a success. Anything short of that is not in my book.