“Why am I yet to move forward? Why is my success delayed?”
Have you ever asked yourself this question? Have you ever found yourself in a situation where this question kept bouncing back and forth in your mind?
The richest man will say much isn’t a success. The poorest man will say lack isn’t success. The average man will say little isn’t a success. So what exactly is success? Without a clear definition of success, it’s impossible to understand or recognize when it’s delayed. Unfortunately, most individuals have yet to define what success is.
People from different walks of life may have varied definitions of success. After the personal definition of success, understanding that success is not always immediate usually comes almost automatically. Just like a tree that goes through the process of seedling to sprout and blossom, success can never be immediate. Hence why it is crucial that success first is understood. The problem starts there.
The emotional impact of delayed success included the low energy that accompanies it. The psychological impact has made many and lots of victims of the physiatry. We must address this topic to prevent more problems, especially in our world today where success can be counted seconds by minutes through the internet.
Understanding the reasons for delayed success spans first through external and internal factors. External factors like market conditions, competition, industry challenges, timing and economic circumstances. On the other hand, Internal factors like personal growth, fear of failure, self-doubt and lack of clarity or skill development contribute to how we perceive delayed success. It is also important we highlight these because like a building’s foundation, they form the basis from which all perceived delays in success arise.
Maintaining a positive mindset in the journey of success goes a long way. They say the battle is always won in the mind, and once it is, it’s truly over. Patience and perseverance are key. In our fast-paced world, we’re becoming individuals who want everything instantly—even our food. However, the process of achieving success cannot be compared to fast food. It takes time and resilience. We need to embrace the journey, and find value and lessons in this process. Remember, there’s no mark without a scar.
There is a common trait studied that Great leaders often share: their dreams almost destroyed them. The path wasn’t easy, but it’s a wonder that’s often where the treasure lies. On your journey to success, focus on your progress. How is it shaping you internally? What’s changing? How is it molding you? Be grateful for every step achieved and avoid comparing yourself to others. After all, imagine your thumb comparing itself to your middle finger. Each has its unique purpose and strengths.
There are strategies to overcome delayed success;
1. Re-evaluate goals and plans: Regularly review and adjust your goals. Develop a flexible action plan that allows you to adapt to changes and setbacks.
2. Skill enhancement and continuous learning: Invest in your personal and professional development. Continuously seek out opportunities for growth, including mentorship and guidance.
3. Network and build relationships: Leverage your connections through networking. Collaborate with others and seek support to help you move forward.
4. Stay persistent and consistent: Consistent effort is key to success. Focus on building habits that contribute to your long-term goals and remain dedicated even when progress seems slow.
In your journey to success, always manage stress and anxiety that comes with it. Practice mindfulness and meditation too. Always seek support, talk to friends, family or a therapist. Also join support groups or communities.
One notable African figure who is an example of success after delays is Nelson Mandela. Mandela emerged to become the country’s first Black president in 1994 at the age of 75. Despite the long years of imprisonment and hardship, he remained steadfast in his beliefs and commitment to justice.
Another is Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a renowned Nigerian author who experienced delays and challenges before achieving international success. Although she began writing at a young age, it took time for her work to gain global recognition. Her first novel, Purple Hibiscus, was published when she was 26, but it was her second novel, Half of a Yellow Sun, published when she was 29, that truly catapulted her to international fame. Despite early rejections and the challenges of breaking into the literary world, Adichie persevered and became one of Africa’s most celebrated authors.
The importance of patience, perseverance, and continuous improvement cannot be overstated on the journey to success. Stay focused and motivated, even in the face of delays. Celebrate your small victories and find fulfillment in every step of your journey towards achieving your goals.
