TV, Movies, and culture in general sometimes paints a narrow, specific image of what success is, but we know from our conversations with some of the best and brightest that success can mean vastly different things to different people.

McKenzie Buzard | Hypnotherapist

The definition of success has changed for me over the years. I used to think of it in terms of status, prestige, and wealth. Now, after becoming a therapist, I see success as contribution. I judge my level of success based on how many people I have helped and how much of an impact I have made upon the individuals that I see. When you move beyond doing things purely for yourself and you are able to truly help people, you find that contribution is truly the most rewarding thing. Read more>>

Erica Buehler | Freelance Writer and Editor

My version of success is a blend of all the stereotypical definitions of success: notoriety, financial security, and an inner sense of accomplishment. I want to look back on my life and, without any hesitation, know that I worked hard, created amazing things with this brain of mine, and was a good person throughout the process. Success to me is overcoming obstacles beyond the bare minimum—not simply surviving or maintaining a steady paycheck while battling everything life throws at me (though that in itself is surely accomplishment) but taking those challenges and repurposing them to make me even more powerful in my career and self. I have always been ambitious, setting high goals for myself; deep down and even on my worst days, I know I am fully capable of achieving those goals and so much more. That’s the success I’m constantly chasing. Read more>>

Eric Poulin | Eric Poulin | Thru-Hiker, Outdoor Adventurer & Content Creator

Success can be defined by identifying what is important to you and in your life, and whether or not you have been able to achieve that goal. Of course, we all define success differently, and its meaning it highly subjective. For me personally, success is being able to spend as much of my time as possible doing the things I enjoy. After all, time is our most valuable commodity. To be able to make the most of our limited time on this planet seems like the best way to define success. Read more>>

Shan Wo | Custom Bicycle Bag Maker

Success to me is feeling fulfilled in all aspects of my life – family and friends, professional, personal self. To wake up every day with a purpose and excitement for what lays ahead. To be constantly challenged, always learning, and have a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day. Read more>>