Is it possible to achieve success in your work despite having limited success

Yesterday, I had an eye-opening discussion with a friend about the true meaning of success.

As we both navigate midlife, it’s clear that success now means something entirely different than it did in our earlier years...

Take me, for example.

I’ve faced a fair share of failures in the last couple of years — enough to make anyone question their path.

But these setbacks taught me something profound, leading me to explore depth psychology, especially the works of Carl Jung.

What did I discover?

It seems the soul incorporates "failure" into its journey. You might end up with nothing more than a bruised ego, yet such "failures" often set things right in the soul...

Here’s what I mean.

For the first 40 years, I was your typical A-type achiever: ambitious, highly organized, and always chasing the next goal.

But something shifted in my mid-40s.

Now, success feels more about fulfillment and less about ego. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and recognizing personal achievements, no matter how small.

For me, many past accomplishments that I thought defined success now feel meaningless.

Like Carl Jung, who found solace in simple, consistent activities, I've come to appreciate "stable pleasures" in life.

These are the things that stick around and bring lasting joy, unlike the fleeting hits to the ego...

Success is always evolving. Even after limited success, work can suddenly deepen and transform... "a sea change into something rich and strange."

I believe deeply in the value of meaningful work, even if it seems like limited success.

Success can be a powerful impact, a sense of accomplishment, or fulfillment. It's not just about financial gain or fame.

It's about doing all you can and feeling deeply satisfied with your efforts...

I am still trying to adjust to this new status of being, but I can tell you I am now more than my ego.

There is something more…

I am not sure how to define it…

But I feel more whole. Does that make sense to you?

↳So here are my takes on success, taken from the view of 49 years old woman:

Success can be a powerful impact, a sense of accomplishment, or fulfillment.

Success isn't just about feeding your ego... it's about nourishing your soul.

Success is recognizing personal achievements, no matter how small.

Success is about taking steps outside your comfort zone.

Success isn’t based on others' reactions or outcomes.

Success often transcends immediate outcomes.

Success is always evolving.

What does success mean to midlife and beyond you?

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

 Warmly,

Vanja

P.S. If you're trying to find your way to meaningful work and don't know where to start, I am organizing a free webinar on August 15.

Please join [it takes only one click], you might find some answers you are looking for.