Author Jennifer Dawn: How I Am Redefining Success Now

An Interview with Karen Mangia

Embrace Purpose-Driven Success: Shift your focus from purely financial achievements to aligning your business or endeavors with a cause you are passionate about. Success should be measured by monetary gains and the positive impact you can make on others and the world. When your work serves a meaningful mission, loving and staying committed to it becomes easier.

Have you ever noticed how often we equate success with more? Whether that’s more products, more profits, more activities or more accomplishments, we buy into the belief that we have to do more to have more to be more. And that will sum up to success. And then along comes The Great Resignation.

Where employees are signaling that the services being offered — even more pay, more perks, and more PTO — isn’t summing up to success for them. We visited with leaders who are redefining what success means now. Their answers might surprise you.

As a part of this series, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Jennifer Dawn. Jennifer Dawn is a seasoned business coach, entrepreneur, inspiring speaker, and author of the upcoming book “The Apple Stand: How to Rekindle the Love of Your Business.” With over 12 years of coaching experience, she empowers clients to build the right teams, break free from limitations, and achieve their goals. Jennifer’s dynamic talks inspire individuals and groups to unleash their full potential. Her mission is to guide clients toward brighter futures, one confident step at a time.

Thank you for making time to visit with us about the topic of our time. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?

Thank you for this opportunity. Two pivotal life experiences have shaped my perspective on redefining success and building a fulfilling business:

• Business Failures and Successes: My journey as an entrepreneur has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks. These experiences have taught me that success isn’t solely about financial achievements. I’ve learned that genuine success is in aligning my business with a cause I’m deeply passionate about. Through my failures, I discovered that loving and staying committed to my business becomes easier when it serves a meaningful mission.
• Work-Life Balance Challenges: I’ve also faced daunting work-life balance challenges during my entrepreneurial journey. I know firsthand the burnout that can result from long hours and relentless hustle, leading to my writing my next book, “The Apple Stand: How To Rekindle the Love For Your Business.” Over time, I realized the value of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and creating a business supporting my well-being.

These lessons have shaped my perspective on redefining success by connecting it to achieving a better work-life balance. I encourage entrepreneurs to design their businesses in a way that allows them to enjoy their work without sacrificing their personal lives.

What myths or misconceptions about success have you used to believe?

I’ve encountered and believed in several myths and misconceptions about success that held me back. These misconceptions are all too common in the business world:

• Financial Wealth Equals Success: I believed that financial wealth was the sole measure of success. This misconception led me to focus solely on maximizing profits and revenue. However, I’ve realized that success is not limited to financial gains alone. While financial stability is essential, it’s just one aspect of a much broader definition of success.
• The Need for Constant Hustle: There’s a prevalent myth that you have to work relentlessly, sacrificing personal time, sleep, and well-being, to achieve success. I used to think I needed to be in a perpetual state of hustle. But this mindset only led to burnout and a strained work-life balance. I’ve learned that success can be achieved without sacrificing one’s health and personal life. Balance and self-care are crucial components of a sustainable and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.
• Overnight Success Stories: I used to believe in the myth of overnight success stories, where entrepreneurs seemingly achieve massive success quickly. This misconception made me impatient and led to unrealistic expectations. Over time, I realized that most successful entrepreneurs have endured failures and setbacks. True success often takes time, persistence, and resilience.
• Success Means Going It Alone: Another misconception I held was that success required me to be a lone wolf, handling every aspect of my business independently. This belief limited my growth and hindered collaboration. I’ve since understood that building a supportive team and seeking guidance from mentors and peers are essential for sustainable success.
• Success is a Destination: I used to view success as a fixed destination, something I would eventually reach and then be done with. This mindset made me overlook the importance of continuous growth and adaptation. I’ve learned that success is a dynamic journey, not a static endpoint. Embracing change and lifelong learning are crucial for sustained success.

Recognizing and dispelling these myths and misconceptions has been instrumental in reshaping my perspective on success. Now, I emphasize that success is multifaceted, encompassing financial stability, personal fulfillment, and a positive impact on others. I also advocate for a balanced, sustainable approach prioritizing well-being, collaboration, and ongoing growth. These realizations have transformed my entrepreneurial journey and guided my coaching and writing to help others redefine success in a more meaningful and holistic way.

How has your definition of success changed?

My definition of success has undergone a transformation over time:

• From Financial Wealth to Purpose-Driven Success: I’ve realized that true success is rooted in aligning my business with a cause I’m passionate about. It’s about making a meaningful impact and serving a mission beyond monetary gains. This shift has deepened my sense of fulfillment and purpose.
• From Constant Hustle to Work-Life Balance: Over time, I’ve learned that success involves achieving a healthy work-life balance. It’s about setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and creating a business supporting my well-being. Success now means enjoying my work without sacrificing my personal life.
• From Overnight Success to Resilience: I’ve abandoned the notion of overnight success and the pressure to achieve rapid results. Instead, I’ve embraced the idea that success is a journey filled with successes and setbacks. It’s about resilience, learning from failures, and staying committed to long-term goals. Success is no longer about shortcuts but about enduring dedication.
• From Solitude to Collaboration: I’ve come to recognize the importance of collaboration and seeking support from mentors, peers, and a dedicated team. Success now includes building solid relationships, leveraging collective wisdom, and fostering a sense of unity within my business.
• From a Destination to a Dynamic Journey: Success is no longer a one-time achievement but an ongoing process of growth and adaptation. Embracing change and remaining open to new opportunities and challenges are vital to my evolving definition of success.

These changes in perspective have transformed my entrepreneurial journey and guided how I mentor and support others in their pursuit of success.

What changes do you need to make as a society to access success post-pandemic?

I believe that there are several fundamental changes that society needs to make to access success in a post-pandemic world:

• Embrace Remote Work and Flexibility: The pandemic has shown us that remote work and flexible work arrangements can be highly effective. To be successful in the post-pandemic era, society should continue to embrace and normalize remote work options. This provides employees with better work-life balance and allows leaders to tap into a broader talent pool and reduce the carbon footprint associated with commuting.
• Prioritize Mental Health and Well-Being: The pandemic highlighted the importance of mental health and well-being. To succeed in the post-pandemic world, society must prioritize mental health support and destigmatize seeking help. Employers should create environments that encourage work-life balance, stress management, and emotional well-being. Accessible mental health resources should be readily available to all.
• Invest in Education and Reskilling: The pandemic accelerated digital transformation and automation. To be successful in the post-pandemic economy, society should invest in education and reskilling programs to equip people with the skills needed for future jobs. Lifelong learning should be encouraged and made accessible to all age groups.
• Create Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The pandemic has shown that resilience and innovation are crucial for success. Society should create an environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. This includes supporting small businesses, providing access to funding, and encouraging a culture of problem-solving and adaptability.

Success in a post-pandemic world requires an approach prioritizing flexibility, well-being, education, sustainability, innovation, equity, and digital inclusion. Society can build a more resilient, adaptable, and prosperous future by making these changes.

What do you see as the unexpected positives in the pandemic?

Many businesses, including mine, faced losing clients during the pandemic due to economic uncertainties. However, this period also encouraged a closer collaboration with our existing clients to help them navigate these difficult times. As business owners and service providers, we worked hand in hand with our clients to find innovative solutions and strategies to boost their revenue.

We explored new market niches, leveraged digital tools for remote operations, and implemented cost-effective measures to ensure our clients’ businesses could weather the storm.

What was indeed heartening to see was how these partnerships evolved into a spirit of shared success. As we collectively navigated the uncertainties, we celebrated victories and milestones together. This period reinforced the idea that success is often a collective effort, and when we support one another during challenging times, we can achieve even greater heights.

I’ve found that among the challenges and hardships brought on by the pandemic, many other unexpected positives have emerged. These silver linings include:

• Emphasis on Resilience: The pandemic has forced individuals and businesses to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. It has highlighted our capacity for resilience and the ability to pivot in adversity. This newfound resilience will serve us well in navigating future challenges.
• Accelerated Digital Transformation: The need for remote work, online learning, and virtual communication accelerated the digital transformation across industries. This has opened up new opportunities for innovation and efficiency, making it easier for businesses to connect with customers and collaborate with partners worldwide.
• Prioritizing Work-Life Balance: The pandemic has prompted many to reevaluate their work-life balance and the importance of spending quality time with loved ones. People have become more aware of the value of personal well-being and have taken steps to establish healthy boundaries between work and life.
• Community Support and Solidarity: Communities have united to support one another during these challenging times. Acts of kindness, mutual aid, and support for local businesses have fostered a sense of solidarity and connectedness that will hopefully endure beyond the pandemic.
• Increased Awareness of Mental Health: The pandemic highlighted the importance of mental health. Conversations around mental well-being have become more open and destigmatized, encouraging individuals to seek help and promoting a more compassionate society.
• Virtual Connectivity: The increased use of virtual communication tools has made it easier for people to stay connected. This convenience has allowed more frequent and meaningful connections with family and friends.

Could you please share 5 Ways To Redefine Success Now?

I believe we can redefine success in today’s world:

• Embrace Purpose-Driven Success: Shift your focus from purely financial achievements to aligning your business or endeavors with a cause you are passionate about. Success should be measured by monetary gains and the positive impact you can make on others and the world. When your work serves a meaningful mission, loving and staying committed to it becomes easier.
• Prioritize Work-Life Integration: Redefine success by achieving a harmonious integration of your work and life goals. Instead of the traditional notion of work-life balance, which often implies a strict separation, aim to design your business and life to allow you to pursue your passions both inside and outside of work. Success should involve holistic well-being and fulfillment in all aspects of life.
• Build a Positive Company Culture: Success can be redefined by creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive company culture. Create a workplace where employees feel valued, respected, and happy. A happy work environment not only leads to personal satisfaction but also contributes to business success. When your team thrives, your business does, too.
• Practice Sustainable Growth: Success should involve sustainable growth, considering long-term environmental and societal impacts. Look for ways to reduce your business’s carbon footprint, adopt environmentally responsible practices, and contribute positively to your community. Sustainable success ensures that your achievements benefit you and future generations.
• Measure Success by Fulfillment: Instead of solely chasing external markers of success, such as wealth or recognition, redefine it by measuring your fulfillment and sense of purpose. Ask yourself if your work brings you joy, satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment. True success is often found when you wake up excited and passionate about your daily work.

Overall, success should be about more than just financial gains. It should encompass purpose, well-being, positive impact, and a balanced integration of work and life. By redefining success in these ways, you can lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life while achieving your professional goals.

How would our lives improve if we changed our definition of success?

If we were to change our definition of success, our lives could improve in numerous ways.

• Enhanced Fulfillment: Shifting our definition of success to include purpose, well-being, and personal growth can lead to greater fulfillment. When we find meaning in our work, prioritize our well-being, and continuously learn and grow, we feel more content and satisfied with our lives.
• Reduced Stress and Burnout: Emphasizing a more balanced approach to success, which includes work-life integration and self-care, can significantly reduce stress and burnout. By acknowledging that success doesn’t require constant hustle, we can enjoy our work without sacrificing our health and personal lives.
• Stronger Relationships: Redefining success to encompass a positive company culture and fostering healthy work relationships can improve our overall quality of life. When prioritizing collaboration, support, and inclusivity, we create a more harmonious work environment and strengthen our connections with colleagues, employees, and clients.
• Positive Impact on Society: Changing our definition of success to include sustainability and community contributions can benefit society. When we measure success by positively impacting the environment and our communities, we contribute to a better, more sustainable world for future generations.
• Increased Resilience: Embracing a mindset of resilience and adaptability as part of our definition of success equips us to navigate challenges and setbacks more effectively. This outlook allows us to bounce back from adversity and approach difficulties as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Greater Life Satisfaction: Ultimately, redefining success leads to greater life satisfaction. When we prioritize what truly matters to us, whether our well-being, meaningful work, or making a difference, we experience a more profound sense of contentment and happiness.
• Improved Mental Health: Shifting away from unrealistic or purely materialistic definitions of success can positively impact our mental health. Recognizing that success is about more than external markers can reduce feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression.

Changing our definition of success can lead to a more balanced, purpose-driven, and fulfilling life. It can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, contribute positively to society, and enhance our well-being and mental health.

What’s the biggest obstacle that stands in the way of our redefined success? And what advice would you offer about overcoming those obstacles?

The biggest obstacle that often stands in the way of our redefined success is the deeply ingrained societal and cultural norms that equate success primarily with financial wealth and external achievements. These norms have been perpetuated for generations and can be challenging to overcome.

Challenge Traditional Definitions: To overcome the obstacle of traditional definitions of success, we must challenge these norms at their core. Start by questioning societal expectations and examining your own beliefs about success. Understand that success is subjective and personal and doesn’t have to conform to conventional standards.

• Set Your Metrics: Define your metrics for success based on your values and goals. Consider what achievement means to you regarding personal growth, positive impact, and well-being. By setting your criteria for success, you regain control over your life’s direction and can measure progress on your terms.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Understand that redefining success is a journey, not an overnight transformation. Be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion as you navigate this shift.
• Lead by Example: By living according to your redefined definition of success, you can lead by example and inspire others to reconsider their views. Share your experiences and the new perspective with those around you, demonstrating that there are alternative paths to success.

The biggest obstacle to redefined success is the deeply entrenched societal norms. However, with self-awareness, determination, and a supportive community, you can overcome these obstacles and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life in alignment with your values and vision of success.

Where do you go to look for inspiration and information about how to redefine success?

Here’s where I go for inspiration:

• Books: I’m an avid reader and find books by thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and authors who explore alternative views of success to be a valuable source of inspiration and information. Some authors I admire in this regard include Simon Sinek, Brene Brown, and Adam Grant.
• Podcasts: Listening to podcasts featuring interviews with individuals who have redefined success and led purpose-driven lives is a great way to gain insights and fresh perspectives. Shows like “How I Built This” and “The Tim Ferriss Show” often feature guests who share their unique journeys to success.
• Mentorship: Seeking guidance from mentors who have already redefined success in their own lives is invaluable. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who’ve provided insights and support on my journey.
• Online Communities: Online forums, social media groups, and communities centered around personal growth, purpose-driven entrepreneurship, and redefining success can be a great source of inspiration and information.
• Nature and Quiet Reflection: Sometimes, the most profound inspiration comes from nature and quiet reflection. Taking time to disconnect, walking in nature, riding my motorcycle, or simply sitting in solitude can help me clarify my values and perspective on success.

Is there a person in the world or the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He, she or they might see this if we tag them.

I admire the work of Ed Mylett. His entrepreneurial journey, commitment to impacting the world, and adventurous spirit have always inspired me. A conversation with him would be incredibly insightful, as he has redefined success in numerous ways through his ventures and philanthropic efforts. Ed Mylett’s approach to business and life aligns with my values, and I would welcome the opportunity to learn from his experiences and vision for a better world.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

JenniferDawnCoaching.com

Thank you for these fantastic insights. We greatly appreciate the time you spent on this. We wish you continued success and good health.

About The Interviewer: Karen Mangia is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world, sharing her thought leadership with over 10,000 organizations during the course of her career. As Vice President of Customer and Market Insights at Salesforce, she helps individuals and organizations define, design and deliver the future. Discover her proven strategies to access your own success in her fourth book Success from Anywhere and by connecting with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.