Success and Failure: the Truth Behind the Stereotypes

Success and failure isn't as straightforward as one might think. Here are 7 things that might help you look at success and failure in a new way.

1. Always remember the story of Abraham Lincoln, as cliche as that might sound.

If you aren't familiar with the story of the 16th President of the United States, take some time to research it when things appear hopeless. He struggled for years before he was a successful politician. That is just the beginning. He also battled poverty, depression, a complex marriage, the death of his sons, and the calamity of the Civil War. Above all of that, he rose to greatness and immortality. Unfortunately, his story doesn't have a happy ending. However, his story should give everyone hope and the courage to keep trying.

2. You are never too old to become successful.

You might think that it is too late to pursue your dreams, but that simply isn't the case. With the life-expectancy still rising, and as medical care continues to advance, people are remaining vital well into their 80s and beyond. If there is something that you truly want to do, go after it with full-force. If worst comes to worst, at least you will be able to say that you tried.

3. Past success doesn't guarantee future success, and past failure doesn't necessarily equate to future failure.

There are plenty of examples of people who were wildly successful who pretty much drove off the proverbial cliff (Britney Spears anyone?), as is there are plenty of examples of people who had very rocky beginnings, only to become wildly successful. Oprah Winfrey is a good example. Just keep that in mind. If you have experienced a lot of success in your life and find yourself against a brick wall, realize that all is not lost. You always have to remember that no one's success is guaranteed, but then again, neither is failure.

4. No one can get through life alone.

We all need to rely on one another once in a while. While some people try to get through life all by themselves, it just isn't feasible. We aren't meant to live our lives in a vacuum. No one's success or failure is entirely a result of his or her own doing.

5. Your definition of success does not have to be that of your parents.

A lot of people fall into the trap of trying to live up to their parent's standard of success, even if it doesn't fit their lives. You can't make everyone happy, but you can ensure your own happiness. We all have different things in mind when thinking about success. You can only live up or fail to live up to your own definition of success.

6. Always remember that money can't buy love or happiness.

With all of the focus on material success, it is easy to lose sight of the fact that money can't buy you what is truly important in life - love and happiness. If you need any further proof, take a closer look at the life of Anna Nicole Smith.

7. Not everyone was meant to be thin.

A lot of people, especially women, don't feel as though they can truly be successful unless they are thin. It is a fact that not everyone can be thin, nor should they be. That doesn't mean, however, that people shouldn't take care of their health. Taking care and responsibility for your own health will help you be successful in other endeavors as well.