The Many Ways to Be Successful
What’s the way to be successful?
Here’s the truth: there isn’t just one.
That’s why I created an entire ABC series—because there are countless ingredients that go into building and sustaining a successful business.
As a professional speaker, I often hear the “rules” people toss around:
- You have to write a book before you speak.
- You have to speak to massive audiences.
- You have to charge a certain amount.
- You have to become a coach.
The truth? None of those are absolutes. There are a lot of ways to find success.
Define What Success Looks Like for You
The first step isn’t chasing someone else’s version of success—it’s defining your own. Ask yourself:
- How many times do I want to speak in a year?
- How much income do I need to earn?
- What balance do I want between family, travel, and work?
- What business model feels most aligned—speaking, coaching, writing, courses, or a mix?
For me, the sweet spot is delivering about 50 keynotes a year. I love opening conferences with energy, equipping attendees with a framework, and then staying to connect with the community. Coaching, books, and online courses are also part of my business—but they’re not the core. Speaking from the stage is where I thrive.
But that doesn’t mean it should be your path. For some, success may come from selling books, leading retreats, or focusing on virtual courses.
Success That Fits Your Life
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned—and often share with young parents interested in speaking—is this: don’t sacrifice your family for your business dreams.
When our kids were growing up, my husband and I chose to spend 80%+ of our time at home. We didn’t miss ski races, soccer games, or dance recitals. That time was priceless, and I wouldn’t trade it.
Travel and opportunities will always be there. But the years with your kids and spouse? They fly by. In those seasons, your speaking business might look like webinars, books, or online courses instead of heavy travel. And that’s okay. You’ll actually gather more wisdom to share down the road.
Success Can Start at Home
I love what professional speaker Walter Bond once shared at the National Speakers Association Minnesota chapter:
“I grew a million-dollar speaking business in Minneapolis before I started traveling all around and speaking.”
You don’t have to go far to grow your business. You can start right where you live.
So, remember: success isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about planning, experimenting, and finding the right rhythm for you and your family. When you do that, you’ll not only build success—you’ll sustain it.
Now, I’d love to hear from you:
- How do you personally define success—both in life and in business?
- What’s one “rule” of success you’ve heard that didn’t actually apply to you?
- If you could design your ideal work-life balance, what would it look like?
