You Made It. Now It’s Time to Work.

by | Jun 11, 2024 | Business Mastery, Leadership Lessons, Personal Development

Today’s #StopDoingNothing blog post is a handful of my personal throughts on the mirage of “making it” … So, take in only what you need. 

In a world driven by achievements and milestones, the concept of “making it” often shrouds itself in glamour and applause. Whether it’s securing the dream job, achieving financial success, or reaching a personal goal, the journey to “making it” can be as elusive as it is celebrated. To peel back the layers of this enigmatic achievement, let’s begin with a snapshot of the statistics that underscore the reality behind the pursuit of success. 

 

The Date Behind “Making It”: 

In the symphony of success, where dreams are composed and aspirations harmonized, there’s a score that often goes unnoticed — the raw data that underscores the journey to “making it.” Beyond the applause and accolades, we find a narrative woven with numbers, a tale of challenges, triumphs, and the intricate dance between effort and outcome. 

So, before we immerse ourselves in the stories and lessons that follow, let’s start with something we understand: the data. These statistics aren’t just numbers; they are the heartbeat of the journey, echoing the realities of “making it” in a world where success is both an art and a science. Join us as we explore the data, unraveling the truths that lay the foundation for the symphony of achievement.

 

  • According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 20% of businesses survive past their first two years.
  • The average student loan debt for 2021 graduates in the United States is over $37,000.
  • A survey conducted by Forbes revealed that 90% of startups fail, with the top reason being a lack of market need for their product or service.
  • The median net worth of U.S. households is approximately $121,700, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
  • A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions.

“Life only ever changes in the paradigm of action. You must do something differently than what you’ve done before.”

~ Gary John Bishop

Unraveling the Illusion:

Let’s dive into a personal story, peeling back the layers of achievement and “making it.”

Meet Alex, a passionate entrepreneur who, after years of tireless effort, finally secured a coveted position in a thriving tech company. The applause was thunderous — family, friends, and colleagues celebrated Alex’s “making it” moment. However, as the confetti settled, the reality dawned …

The position came with immense responsibility, demanding 12-hour workdays, constant adaptation to industry trends, and the ever-looming specter of burnout. The initial thrill of “making it” was replaced by the sobering realization that success, in any form, required sustained effort.

This story is not unique. Behind every achievement lies a story of hard work, resilience, and the willingness to navigate the complex terrain beyond the initial triumph. The concept of “making it” is not a finish line but a gateway to the next chapter — a chapter that requires dedication, perseverance, and a relentless work ethic.

The Reality of “Making It”:

  • Continuous Learning: “Making it” is not the end; it’s a new beginning. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning, staying ahead of industry trends, and adapting to the evolving landscape.
  • Managing Expectations: The illusion of “making it” often carries unrealistic expectations. Understand that success is a journey, not a destination, and setbacks are part of the process.
  • Balancing Passion and Practicality: Pursue work that aligns with your passion but remains mindful of the practical aspects. A successful business (or career) requires a harmonious blend of passion and pragmatism.
  • Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Challenges are inevitable. Whether it’s a career setback or a personal hurdle, resilience is the key to weathering storms and emerging stronger.
  • Cultivating Work-Life Harmony: Success is not synonymous with sacrificing personal well-being. Cultivate a balance between professional aspirations and personal fulfillment, ensuring a sustainable journey.

    Tips for the Journey Ahead …

    As we unravel the illusion of “making it,” let’s remember that success is not a one-time event but a continuous journey. To thrive in this journey:

    • Define Success on Your Terms: Success is subjective. Define it on your terms, aligning with your values and aspirations.
    • Celebrate Milestones, Embrace the Journey: Celebrate achievements but recognize that the journey is ongoing. Each milestone is a stepping stone to the next.
    • Stay Committed to Growth: Commit to continuous growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and development.
    • Connect with a Supportive Community: Surround yourself with a supportive community. Share experiences, seek advice, and contribute to the success of others.
    • Work — and create — with Purpose: Infuse purpose into your work. Align your efforts with a higher goal to find fulfillment and meaning in your journey.

    In the grand tapestry (we’ll call it!) of “making it,” the real work begins after the applause fades. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and relish the continuous journey toward your ever-evolving definition of success.

    “We can only truly be successful at something we’re willing to fail at. If we’re unwilling to fail, then we’re unwilling to succeed.” ~Mark Manson