After I tasted success, I started thinking about how I contribute to the world.
Here are some of the things I've done.
I shared my thoughts in a book called Crash Course.
I wanted to help others realize their dreams.
I made a list of the projects and dreams of the people I care about so I could help them realize their visions through capital, advice, and hands-on involvement.
This approach felt more personal and meaningful than just giving money away willy-nilly, as it allowed me to participate in their journey.
I wanted to make helping others one of the most important projects of my life.
Today, not so much.
Or at least I won’t carry anybody's dreams on my shoulders.
In the same way that success gave me an opportunity, spirituality has lately given me some wisdom with tough love.
A week ago, I tried to help a family member as close to me as you can think of.
I did it in a rushed way because I was stressed and afraid that he might make a mistake with bad consequences for him.
He got angry at me.
He even questioned my intentions.
Today, I’m reminded of the old woman who was beating with her purse a couple of youngsters who helped her cross the road.
Why?
Because she didn't want to cross it.
The new me (which is a work in progress):
- No need to save everyone else. Start with me first.
- You can’t help others more than they are willing to help themselves
- We all have different levels of understanding and ambition
- You can’t decide what’s better for others
- You can’t expect others to do what’s good for… themselves
- Fruit falls when it's ripe
Success constantly changes form.
Where it was about creating opportunities for others, it’s now about wisdom, knowing when to support, push, and, more importantly, let go and let everyone choose their path.
So, how do you define success beyond personal goals?
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