Defining Success

What is your definition of success? When you look at an author and think, “Wow, they’ve made it,” what makes you think that? Is it the amount of followers they have? The amount of books they’re selling? Amount of money they’re making? Or even the size readership they have?

Think on this for a minute.

It’s easy to let one of these factors be the key element in our minds when we think of success. But let me be blunt with you: that’s the world’s definition of success. As followers of Christ, we should have a different definition in mind.

Because true success doesn’t come from followers or readers and especially not from money. Those are all things that can change in the blink of an eye. So what is success?

The answer to this question may vary slightly from person to person. Everyone has their own set of goals and dreams they’re pursuing so everyone has something different in their mind when they think of success. But, as Christians, there should be an universal definition no matter what our end goal is.

Success comes from God, not from man. I believe that true success comes from writing faith based books for His kingdom and leading others to Christ. Even if your stories don’t always have a faith element, simply by writing clean books is beneficial for readers. There is a definite need for them.

Everyone has the desire to become a well known author who sells lots of books, but that life isn’t meant for everyone. I was talking with a friend recently and she worded it perfectly: just as God calls some pastors to small congregations and other pastors to mega churches—God calls authors to different levels of readerships.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to sell lots of books, I know that’s what I hope to do one day. But it’s when that becomes our sole focus that we will fail.

Do not measure your success from earthly gain. Earthly possessions will pass away, but it’s the true treasure that will last an eternity.

Personally, the way I feel about it, if only one reader is moved by the books I write, then it’s a success. If only one person benefits from my stories, it will all be worth it. I’m not writing for thousands or even millions, I’m writing for God. He has a plan for my life that I don’t even know about, but I’m content with whatever He deems success for my life.

I can honestly say this with a smile because that’s how I feel about it. When we put our faith and trust in God He will bless us and give us more than we ever hoped for.

Such as this blog for example. Some people may look at my amount of followers and cringe or maybe feel sorry for me. But to me, I look at it and smile! I am blown away that I have this amount of followers in such a short amount of time! No, it’s not hundreds, but that’s okay. I’m reaching people with my words and that is enough for me.

What about you?

Your turn!

How do you define success? What does your end goal look like? Do you wish to reach thousands with your books or would you be content with only a handful of readers if that is God’s plan?

Blessings, Allyson

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