Why You Don’t Want to Feel Successful

It’s OK to not feel successful.

In fact, it might be better if you don’t.

This morning on my drive to work, I was listening to a podcast featuring a well-known improv comedy performer.

At one point, the host asked him when in his career he felt like he’d found his footing.

Now, entertainers, be it actors, musicians, jugglers or the like, are similar to athletes — if you’ve heard of them, they’re successful.

The 12th man on an NBA bench or the last guy on the PGA Tour money list is among the ultra-elite of his field.

This improviser makes his living touring the country for shows and was recognizable enough to be invited onto one of the most popular podcasts in the industry.

Yet when asked if he felt he’d made it, he said no.

But the real insight came next, in his justification.

He said that he believes this mindset is a good thing, because it’s kept him curious. It’s kept him hungry, and motivated, and eager to learn.

And because of that, he’s continually having more fun and uncovering new discoveries — none of which would’ve been possible if he’d been standing still.

While I do believe there’s value in taking a breath for satisfaction, it seems as if the most satisfied people are the ones who, on some level, always keep their eyes on that dangling carrot of accomplishment.

If you’re moving forward, you’re evolving.

And what better definition of success is there than that?

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This originally appeared on 100 Naked Words.