032: Stability

“Take what you need, and leave the rest” -The Band

Lately, I hear this question a lot, What does success look like to you? Many people respond with being able to help more people or making an impact on the world, etc. Rarely, do you hear people say to make enough money to never work again, because that would sound selfish and shallow, but I wonder how many people starting their own business have this ultimate goal. I want to help people and make a dent in the universe and be healthy and fulfilled, but I sure would like my online business to generate enough income to never worry about money again. Financially stable.

I think most people want and need stability in life starting at a very early age and as an adult stability is often paired with finances. We need structure and to feel balanced and grounded and secure. Routine and habit, structure and stability are requirements for me and that does not mean I cannot be spontaneous or carefree or flexible. Stability is the comfort of knowing that you are in control and you can move around freely, but are safe and secure. I think most people want stability, but it’s rarely the response for the success question. I guess it’s too boring or maybe just assumed.

The answer to the success question doesn’t really matter as it is too complex, but when I think honestly about the answer, I think being financially stable and secure is high on the list even though that makes me seem a little selfish or self-serving. Is that a bad thing? Money is the root of all evil in many ways because some people want too much for the wrong reason and others don’t have enough and they live a miserable life and blame money as the reason. In the middle lies stability and security.

Sufficiency. That is all I seek. To have enough of everything so that I can enjoy life and live on my terms.

What is my definition of success? To do what I want.