On Success

“Success is an attitude.”

I saw this quote some time ago and have been thinking about it more recently. What does it mean? I know in part it means we are who we think we are, but I have a feeling there is more to it.

For me to be successful as an artist I have had to believe I can do things I have never done before. To be successful as a small business owner even more so.

I have encountered uncertainties along the way, but I think that is more because I am not a clairvoyant (nor would I wish to be one…where is the lesson then?). But have I ever doubted myself as an artist?

For sure, I have lost my mojo when I have been tired or my forward momentum was thwarted and I needed to start my engines again. However, when I really think about it, the answer is “No.” I have never truly doubted my ability as an artist and have only ever believed in my success as one.

Perhaps the issue is in defining “success.” It can be defined in so many different ways that I think it is what one wants it to be. I have had numerous successes, as a person and now as an artist. Some of them are the successes I have wanted or needed. There are other successes that still elude me. I believe I will achieve them, and in the meantime I count the ones I have achieved as blessings.