“Basically, when you get to my age, you’ll really measure your success in life by how many of the people you want to have love you actually do love you.” — Warren Buffett
On Thanksgiving Day, I invite you to consider what truly defines success. Despite wealth and achievement, ultimate success isn’t measured by financial metrics but by the quality and depth of our relationships. This perspective transforms how we think about human connection, career achievement, and personal and professional fulfillment.
As we gather with family and friends and reflect on gratitude, we’re challenged to consider what we’re really building through our personal and professional lives. Are we accumulating wealth, titles, and achievements while neglecting the relationships that give life meaning? Are we so focused on external success that we’re failing to invest in the connections that truly matter?
True success isn’t about being liked by everyone – that’s impossible and exhausting. It’s about being genuinely valued by the people whose opinions and affection matter most to you. This includes family, close friends, and yes, professional colleagues with whom you have built genuine relationships, rather than mere networking contacts.
This means prioritizing relationship quality over quantity. It means being the kind of friend, colleague, leader, or teammate that others genuinely respect and enjoy being around and working with. It means treating people as whole human beings rather than just professional resources. It means investing time and energy in maintaining connections even when there’s no immediate or obvious benefit.
This perspective also reframes how we handle interpersonal conflicts and challenges. When someone frustrates us, we can ask: “Is this person someone whose respect I value? How can I address this issue in a way that preserves or even strengthens our relationship?” This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations – it means having them with care and respect.
As we express gratitude today, let’s remember that our success is ultimately measured not by what we achieve, but by who we become and how we treat others along the way.
In that spirit, please accept my heartfelt appreciation for your presence in my life and for being part of the CLC Community. Wishing you and yours a meaningful holiday.
Happy Networking!