When someone asks you to define success, it’s more than just a question—it’s a challenge. It forces you to pause and sift through what truly matters to you. I recently faced this exact moment during a dinner with some of the most accomplished founders, CEOs, and leaders from across the globe. We were in Fiji, surrounded by the kind of natural beauty that makes you introspective, when someone asked, “What does success mean to you?”

The weight of that question hit hard. Here I was, sitting with people who have achieved staggering levels of success—deca-millionaires, billionaires, innovators who’ve transformed industries. These are people who play at an elite level, not just in business but in life. And suddenly, the conversation wasn’t about scaling a company, hitting revenue milestones, or market share. It was about something far deeper: the personal definition of success.

Diverse Perspectives on Success

As each person shared their thoughts, the diversity of perspectives was striking. For some, success was tied to specific revenue milestones—a way to validate their journey, prove their worth, and silence the doubters of their past. This resonated with many in the group; after all, who hasn’t faced their own internal (or external) critics?

Others talked about success in terms of the impact on their teams—employee engagement, creating an environment where people feel valued and inspired, and seeing their work contribute to something larger. This was about leaving a legacy through sustainable growth and creating solutions that don’t just meet a need but are loved by customers.

And then there were those who spoke of fulfillment beyond the business—about creating multi-generational enterprises, contributing to causes they care deeply about, and building something that would outlast them.

When my turn came, I realized that for me, success boiled down to two key principles:

1. Family First: The Ultimate Measure of Success

For me, success begins and ends with family. Building a business is important, but it’s not the be-all and end-all. The true test of success is whether it allows me to be present for my family—to coach my kids’ sports teams, to never miss a school performance, a birthday, or a holiday. It’s about creating a life where I can take summer vacations with them, explore the world together, and make memories that we’ll talk about for years to come.

In the grind of building a business, it’s easy to lose sight of why we started in the first place. For me, it’s always been about creating a life that gives me the freedom to be there for the people who matter most. This doesn’t mean sacrificing growth or ambition—it’s about finding that balance where the business serves your life, not the other way around.

Actionable Insight:

Take a moment to reflect on how your business aligns with your personal values. Are you creating space for what matters most? If not, what adjustments can you make today to start moving in that direction? It might mean delegating more, setting firmer boundaries, or rethinking your business model to allow for more flexibility.

2. Elevating Others: Success Beyond Self

The second pillar of success for me is how well I’ve helped others rise—even if it means they surpass me. There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from seeing someone you’ve mentored or supported go on to achieve great things, sometimes beyond what you’ve accomplished yourself. I’ve been fortunate enough to see many of my team members grow into leadership roles, start their own companies, and even have successful exits. To me, that’s not just success—it’s legacy.

But it’s not just about business. On a personal level, I’m passionate about elevating those who might not see their own potential, especially young people who think their circumstances define their future. When you can help someone discover a brighter path, you’re doing more than just succeeding—you’re making a real difference.

Actionable Insight:

Look for opportunities to mentor, support, or elevate others. This could be within your own company, your community, or through partnerships with organizations that align with your values. Think about how you can use your success to create ripple effects that benefit others.

Key Takeaway: Success is Personal, Evolving, and Multifaceted

The main takeaway from that evening in Fiji is that success is deeply personal and it evolves over time. It’s not a one-size-fits-all concept. For some, it’s about financial milestones; for others, it’s about personal fulfillment or the impact you have on others. The key is to define success on your own terms and to regularly reassess whether your life and business align with those values.

Conclusion: Let’s Redefine Success Together

In the end, success is more than just achieving public recognition or hitting business targets. It’s about creating a life that reflects your deepest values and contributes to the well-being of others. So, I ask you—what does success mean to you? Take some time to think about it, and when you're ready, share your thoughts with me. Whether it’s in the comments, an email, or a LinkedIn message, I’d love to hear your perspective. Let’s continue this conversation and redefine what it means to truly win.