9 out of 10. Defining Success.

If you want something bad enough, 9 out of 10 times you will get it.  There is, on that rare occasion, the one time that, regardless of the amount of effort you put forth, it is out of your reach.  That is something that we have to accept. Maybe.

Let's stay focused on the 9 things you did want, and got.

Try to go back as far into your personal and professional life and think of that one "thing".  For most it was a materialistic object, an item that you saw someone else have either at the park, at school or when out in a common area.  You knew that no matter what it took you would find a way to have that one item, that same object, that same experience.  It was one of your first experiences at determination and persistence.

Fast forward to your college years.  For most, it was during those years that you can think of something, or someone, that was in your cross hairs.  It may have been a course that you wanted to earn an "A" in, an intern position on the Capital or at the University as you completed your graduate studies or landing that first job, post graduation.  Regardless, each of those moments in time fell into your 9 out of 10.

For those of us that are well in to our careers think about your professional path and what has been accomplished.  Think about those moments in your life in which you wanted the opportunity to be successful, enriched with an experience or do something that you knew would make you a better person, a better professional.  Attaining those 9 out 10 "things" has made your career that much more rewarding.  

What separates the 9 from the 1?  If they say that "anything is possible" is that truly the case?  If we hear "at first you don't succeed, try, try again" is there really an option of not being successful?  If "failure is not an option" then how do not have all 10 things?

As you work through this week, think about your 9 out of 10 and remind yourself of all the work that you had to put forth to be as successful as you are.  If you are feeling like you have fallen short and not in the place you envisioned to be, then there are some tough questions to be asked.  And, if you are only averaging 4-6 of the 10, what can you do to change that and increase your percentage?  Often times it is taking the moment to reflect on your work that makes all the difference in the world.

Keep up the good work.  Celebrate the success and be reflective in all that you do.  Go for the 10!