Happiness and Success

When we consider our individual goals and purpose in life, we begin to get our arms around what Success means to each of us. A definite vision of a goal helps the journey there move forward along a clear path. This is true for Success as well.

But even those who are still uncertain about their specific Success goals would agree that one fundamental aspect of a successful life has always been Happiness. The state of being happy is being explored with unprecedented research today as social scientists and psychologists explore what triggers happiness and positive mental health and its impact on our overall health and our lives.

Dan Baker, Author of "What Happy People Know" (2003) offers an enlightening book on the subject of happiness and its attainment. In pursuit of Success, Baker's 12 Qualities of Happiness are worth sharing. They are:

1. Love
2. Optimism
3. Courage
4. A sense of freedom
5. Proactivity
6. Security
7. Health
8. Spirituality
9. Altruism
10. Perspective
11. Humor, and
12. Purpose.

(Dan Baker, PhD is director of the Life Enhancement Program at Canyon Ranch.)

I recommend Baker's book as a quick read in paperback to consider your Happiness goals as part of your personal Run for Success. Pop it in your car, your purse or briefcase to fuel your mind with fresh and upbeat ideas for Success.

Success in Any Economy

As I speak with people about Success, it seems folks are wondering if they can still dream and reach for their goals given the challenging economic climate worldwide? The answer, of course, is YES. It would be ludicrous to think we can all use all of the same career tracks that may have worked last year, but creative thinking will lead us down new paths to achievement. In fact, in a recent speech in Kentucky, Cleveland Federal Reserve President -- Sandra Pianalto, shared that according to the US Patent office, there were 80% more patent applications in 2008 than there were ten years previous, in 1998.

Of course, the basic principles of quality performance, value and good business are fundamental to the success of any venture. Ideas alone without sound planning seldom endure.

However, while some of our huge institutions may be struggling, times like these often encourage entrepreneurs to launch new ventures and spur new economic growth engines. New opportunities are presented for those individuals open to positive thinking and change.

Creativity and awareness of new markets and consumer demands will continue to fuel possibilities for career success. Look around us. Is there an idea you have been considering launching for some time now? Carpe Diem. Perhaps today is your day.

Welcome to Success on the Run!

Welcome to Success on the Run!

If you are reading this blog you are probably an individual who wants to reach your own unique personal and professional goals and live your life to the fullest.

Success on the Run is a blog about success in key areas including personal, career, fitness, financial and spiritual aspects … and how to reach for and achieve success even with the time constraints of a busy life.

You will hear from me in this blog, and you’ll hear from other experts in the core areas as well. Together we will offer ideas in to rev up your run for success. (Think of this as a quick cup of high caf coffee for your mind!)

Thought for the day: If you could live your perfect life right now, what would it look like? And, if your life looks nothing like the perfect life you just imagined, how can you move toward that “new and improved version”?

You know it is impossible to create a picture of success for anyone other than your self. Success is personal. It is yours alone to define and enjoy. As the saying goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Life success is like this as well. I may prefer a quiet home in the country while you think a loft apartment in a busy city is a dream of a lifetime.

Today, take time to think about your dreams and what success means to you. Going forward, we will continue to explore this concept to stay focused on the path in every way.

Welcome to Success on the Run!