Success is a curious concept, isn’t it? We all chase it, but the definition varies from person to person.

For some, success might mean a corner office and a six-figure salary. For others, it’s about having the freedom to pursue their passions or spend time with loved ones.

But what if I told you there are certain milestones in life that indicate you’re already successful, even if it doesn’t feel like it yet?

That’s right: by achieving certain markers, you’ve already outpaced 95% of people in this race we call life. Curious to find out what these milestones are?

Let’s dive into the seven signs that you’re already significantly ahead, even if, at times, you might feel like you’re moving at a snail’s pace.

1) Self-awareness

Self-awareness is a skill that can’t be bought or taught, yet it’s one of the most vital markers of success.

Why, you ask? Well, it’s the foundation stone for growth and development. It’s about understanding your strengths and weaknesses, knowing what makes you tick, and recognizing the impact your actions have on others.

Most people spend their lives reacting to situations rather than understanding why they react in a certain way.

But if you’re someone who’s taken the time to introspect and understand your motivations and responses, then give yourself a pat on the back.

You’ve already taken a significant leap in personal growth that puts you ahead of 95% of people. This milestone is not just about identifying your patterns but also about making conscious decisions to improve and evolve.

Remember, success isn’t just about achieving targets at work or hitting financial goals. It’s also about personal growth and understanding yourself better. And in that journey of self-discovery, you’re already winning.

2) Embracing failure

I remember vividly this one time when I had been working on a project for weeks. I had put in countless hours, sleepless nights, and immense effort, only for it to fail spectacularly. It was disheartening, to say the least.

But here’s the thing: That failure was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. It taught me resilience, it taught me to innovate, and most importantly, it taught me that failure is not the end but a stepping stone towards success.

The ability to embrace failure is a milestone that many people struggle with. We live in a society that often views failure as something to be ashamed of, rather than a learning opportunity.

But if you’ve reached a point where you can see failure as just another stepping stone on the path to success, then congratulations! You’re much further ahead in the game of life than you might think.

Learning from our failures and using them as fuel for growth is what sets truly successful people apart.

So next time you face a setback, remember: it’s not a dead end but a detour on your journey to success. And that’s something to be proud of.

3) Living authentically

In a world where we are constantly bombarded by societal expectations and norms, living authentically is no easy feat.

Did you know that in the animal kingdom, there are species such as chameleons and octopuses that change their appearance to blend in with their environment?

Humans, however, aren’t biologically equipped for such physical transformations. Still, metaphorically, many of us try to camouflage ourselves to fit in with societal expectations.

If you’ve reached a point in your life where you are comfortable being yourself and not trying to fit into someone else’s mold, then you’re already ahead of the curve.

Living authentically means making choices that align with your beliefs and values, even if they’re not popular or understood by others. It’s about honoring your unique self and understanding that it’s okay to be different.

This milestone is a significant indicator of personal growth and emotional maturity, putting you ahead of the 95% who are still trying to find their authentic selves.

4) Financial independence

Money isn’t everything, but achieving financial independence certainly is something. It’s not about becoming a millionaire or living a life of luxury.

No, financial independence is about having control over your finances and being able to make choices that aren’t dictated by monetary constraints.

If you’ve reached a point where you can comfortably pay your bills, save for the future, and still have enough left for your wants and needs, then you’re doing better than you think.

Financial independence isn’t just about earning well; it’s about managing money smartly. It’s about budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding the value of money.

In a world where most people live paycheck to paycheck, achieving financial independence puts you ahead of the majority.

Remember, it’s not about how much you earn but how wisely you manage it. And if you’ve got a handle on your finances, then you’re already winning at life.

5) Prioritizing mental health

There was a time in my life when everything seemed to be falling apart. My work was demanding, my relationships were strained, and I felt a constant sense of overwhelm. It was during this time that I realized the importance of prioritizing mental health.

The world moves at a fast pace, and it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, neglecting our mental well-being in the process.

But if you’ve reached a stage where you recognize the importance of taking care of your mental health, you’re definitely ahead.

Whether it’s taking time out for meditation, seeking therapy when needed, or simply saying no to things that drain you, prioritizing mental health is a sign of strength and wisdom.

In a society that often glorifies being busy and under stress, understanding the importance of mental peace and making conscious efforts towards it is truly commendable.

So if you’re on this path, know that you’re already leading in life’s race.

6) Understanding the value of relationships

In a world that often equates success with professional achievements and material possessions, understanding the true value of relationships is a milestone that sets you apart.

If you’ve reached a point where you prioritize meaningful relationships over superficial connections, then you’re already ahead of the curve.

It’s about nurturing relationships with family and friends, being there for them in times of need, and knowing that they have your back too.

Humans are social creatures, and our relationships play a crucial role in our overall well-being. They provide us with emotional support, help us grow as individuals, and add joy to our lives.

Many people realize the importance of nurturing relationships only later in life. If you’ve already understood this, know that you’re not just emotionally intelligent but also ahead of 95% of people.

Continue to invest time and effort into your relationships. They are truly your wealth.

7) Embracing change

The only constant in life is change. It’s inevitable and often unpredictable. If you’ve reached a point where you can not only accept change but also embrace it, then you’re leagues ahead of most people.

Change can be scary because it pushes us out of our comfort zones. But it’s also an opportunity for growth, learning, and new experiences.

Embracing change means being open to possibilities, adapting to new situations, and not being afraid to take on unfamiliar challenges. It’s about seeing change not as a threat but as a chance for evolution.

This milestone signifies emotional resilience and adaptability, two traits that are key to navigating life successfully. So if you’ve mastered the art of embracing change, know that you’re already ahead in the game of life.

Final thought: It’s your journey

Life is a unique journey for each one of us. It’s not a race against others, but a continuous endeavor to be better than who we were yesterday.

Success isn’t defined by society’s norms or expectations but by the milestones that matter to you. It’s about personal growth, improving relationships, embracing change, and valuing mental well-being.

The seven milestones discussed here aren’t end goals, but waypoints in your life’s journey. They signify that you’re on the right path, even if it doesn’t always feel like it.

Remember, life isn’t about reaching a destination. It’s about enjoying and learning from the journey.

If you’ve reached these milestones, take a moment to appreciate yourself. You’re doing better than you think. And most importantly, you’re already ahead of 95% of people.

The journey continues. Keep going, keep growing.