She Strengthens

Rethinking Success: Beyond the Bottom Line

As I reflect on my first year as a full-time freelance writer, I’m struck by how my understanding of success has evolved. Gone are the days when a bigger paycheck was the ultimate measure of achievement. Today, I’m more concerned with living a life that aligns with my values and priorities.

From Raises to Reality Checks

In my previous hourly wage positions, raises were a badge of honor, proof that I was doing a good job and deserving of more money. But when I transitioned to a government job with fixed pay scales, I realized that my effort didn’t necessarily translate to a higher salary. It was a harsh reality check, especially when I discovered that a less productive colleague was earning more than me.

The Shift to Self-Employment

As I ventured into freelancing, I felt pressure to share my earnings publicly, partly to benchmark my progress and partly to fit in with my self-employed peers. But as I looked back on my first six months, I realized that I was exhausted and unfulfilled, despite earning a decent income. I had lost sight of why I quit my job in the first place: to build a life that prioritized freedom, relationships, and personal growth.

Redefining Goals and Happiness

I let go of my initial goal to earn $100,000 in 2016 and instead focused on doing what makes me happy. I’ve prioritized my own projects, nurtured meaningful relationships, and structured my schedule to accommodate adventure and spontaneity. As a result, I’ve grossed less than expected, but I’m 100% happier.

The Importance of Honesty and Baselines

Talking openly about finances is crucial, as it allows us to learn from each other and identify our individual baselines for happiness. For me, $60,000 is the sweet spot, enabling me to live, save, and travel comfortably. I encourage you to calculate your own baseline and prioritize what truly matters to you.

Measuring Success Beyond Dollars

As I look back on my journey, I realize that I used to tie my self-worth to my salary. But now, I believe that success should be measured by the experiences we have, the relationships we nurture, and the goals we achieve. Let’s redefine what it means to be successful and focus on living a life that truly reflects our values.