Right direction. It's a phrase we often toss around in our conversations, like a compass guiding us through life's various terrains. But really, what does it mean to move in the right direction? Could it mean marching in lockstep towards the pinnacle of what we perceive as success? Could it be walking a path different from our peers, the path less traveled? Or perhaps, it could mean carving out our own unique path, one that aligns with our passions, strengths, and the impact we want to make on this big blue marble.

In my journey of personal development and professional growth, carving through the clutter of societal expectations and self-perceived shortcomings, I have come to realize that moving in the right direction doesn't necessarily mean moving towards the height of success as it’s traditionally defined. It is not a destination in itself, but a journey. A journey of discovery, of exploration, of learning, and most importantly, of progress.

Yes, progress thrusts us into the right direction regardless of where we stand or where we aim to go. And often, progress doesn't roar. It's a quiet engine, gently propelling us towards our goals, one small step at a time. It’s the subtle shift in mindset, the softening of stubborn habits, the gentler tone with a loved one, the extra rep at your workout, or the added line in your growing manuscript. It's about gaining momentum, staying committed, and most importantly, never standing still.

Often, we find ourselves shackled by the fear of failure, the fear of the unknown, and ironically, the fear of success. We're scared that if we take a single misstep, we will tumble. Here’s the secret – it's not the falling that matters, but the rising. The most successful people you've heard of? They all took falls, massive ones at that. What set them apart was their willingness to get up, dust off, learn from it and take that all-important next step.

Reflect on your own life. Haven't there been times when you felt stuck, overwhelmed by the steep mountain you had to climb, merely looking at the summit and forgetting about the journey? Now think about the times when you took one small step, then another, then another. Before you knew it, you had hit your stride, gaining momentum, learning, growing, moving, progressing. And isn't that what matters?

Remember, every little step brings you closer to your success, as long as you keep moving. You're always a work in progress. And, just as Michelangelo sculpted the exquisite ‘David' out of a single piece of marble, you too are sculpting yourself into a masterpiece with each passing moment.

But what about those days when the engine of progress seems to stall? When even lifting a foot feels like wading through quicksand? Here's what I have learned: The path you tread doesn't get easier. YOU get stronger. Everything you need to succeed is within you. Harness your inner strength, tap into that reservoir of resilience, and believe in yourself. You are more powerful than you realize.

The key to moving in the right direction is not just about progress but keeping the compass pointed towards your personal north – your values, your vision, your passions. As Francesca Reigler aptly put it, “Happiness is not a destination. It is a way of life.” The same principle applies to success. Success isn’t only about achieving a predefined outcome; it’s also about enjoying the journey, embracing personal growth, and making a consistent effort.

With a strong belief in your journey, each step you take, each milestone you reach, no matter how tiny, is a success in its own right. Yes, it is that simple. Success is not just the end goal, it's the journey, the growth, the self-belief, and the relentless pursuit of your vision – no matter how many times you stumble on the way.

So, beautiful souls, keep moving forward. Strive for progress, not perfection. Lend yourself the empathy you offer to others. Learn, grow, stumble, rise, and above all, celebrate you. Every single day. Because as long as you are moving, learning, and growing, you are succeeding. You're inevitably moving in the right direction. Trust the process, trust your journey, and above all, trust yourself. Now, isn't that a reason to celebrate?” You are already a Success Insider!