Thoreau once said: “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” That’s something I’ve seen play out time and again.
In my experience, the most meaningful wins aren’t about recognition. They’re the byproduct of staying focused on what matters.
Here’s how I try to approach it:
1. Focus on real impact, not surface success
The people doing the most meaningful work rarely talk about it. They’re busy solving real problems, and that’s what makes them stand out.
2. Be useful, not just busy
It’s easy to fill your calendar. It’s harder (and more valuable) to focus on problems that truly need solving.
3. Treat learning as your job
The top performers I know aren’t chasing quick wins; they’re building skills, adapting fast, and improving every day.
4. Let success follow the work
When you focus on growth, craft, and service, success tends to find you.
I’ve found that fulfilment doesn’t come from chasing a title.
It comes from knowing you’re building something that matters.
How do you define success in your own journey? – Ali Aydan
Ali Aydan: The best leaders don’t chase success; they build it.
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