Sometimes it’s empowering to say or think that we are “self-made.” “I did this all on my own.” “My success is due to my hard work and I did it myself.” Although there is truth in that our success is ultimately our own responsibility, how true is it that we do things completely on our own? 2019 was my best professional year ever in that my income went up, my business grew, and I improved my skills in all areas of my business. I’m proud of myself. Yet when I really think back over this year, I didn’t do it myself. I’m surrounded by people who helped me grow and succeed.
Some of those people are obvious…my husband, my virtual assistant, my editor, my children, and of course my favorite dog sitter. My friends also helped with words of encouragement, advice, and a place to laugh and talk it all through. My children and husband supported me with their questions, kind words, and willingness to take care of things at home when they are on their school and work breaks.
It Takes a Village to Succeed
Yet there are so many others who are part of my 2019 success. Lots and lots of Uber drivers contributed. Hotel cleaning people and staff made sure that my hotel stays were enjoyable and safe. Some of the women who cleaned my hotel rooms let me know that they were sending me good vibes with inspiring notes or a little extra treat for my room. I would come back to my hotel room exhausted and that little something always made me feel cared for and supported.
There was car rental staff who (mostly) welcomed me with a smile and some tips for great restaurants in their area. There was also waitstaff who welcomed me with a smile and a good recommendation that contributed to my success in 2019. Never discount a good meal to add to your motivation! Bathroom attendants and gas station workers all helped by keeping those rest stops clean and welcoming.
I’m particularly grateful to the pilots and flight attendants who contributed to my success this year. It’s hard to be successful when you are not safely getting to your destinations. It’s always amazing to me how calm the airline people are despite scary moments and downright rude customers. I watched three customer service women remain calm and professional despite the verbal abuse of a very drunk and belligerent customer. I’m not sure that I would have responded similarly in that situation!
Our success in life and work depends upon the support and professionalism of those around us. #success #community #career Click To TweetI’m grateful for my kind and patient accountant who ever so gently reminded me to make those quarterly payments on time. My success is also because of the wonderful help I have in the classrooms at both iPEC coaching and American Management Association. The volunteers and assistants in those settings make me look very good by handling all of the details that go on behind the scenes. The support staff and teams at each of these organizations are also responsible for my success. I’m not sure where I’d be without their support.
This list could be endless. It is in my head and my heart. We never succeed alone, and knowing that is so comforting to me. When we surround ourselves with bright, kind, and loving people, we succeed and so do they. I hope I have sufficiently thanked all of these people this year. If not, I’m going to keep at it in 2020. I am eternally grateful for each and every one of them.
Love,
Lisa Kaplin Psy. D. PCC