Understanding the path to success can be tricky. After all, it’s not always about the big wins or high-profile achievements.

Sometimes, it’s the subtle signs that hint you’re on the right track. These are the quiet indicators that suggest you’re paving your way towards major success in life.

In this article, I’ll share 10 subtle signs to watch for. Think of them as breadcrumbs leading you to your ultimate goal.

1) Embracing failure

Success isn’t just about the wins. It’s also about how you handle the losses.

If you’re finding that you’re not just tolerating failure, but actually embracing it, that’s a huge sign you’re on your way to success.

Why? Because every failure is a learning opportunity. It’s a chance to grow and improve. And if you’re using failure as a stepping stone, rather than a stumbling block, you’re already ahead of the game.

Keep in mind, all successful people have failed at one point or another. It’s not the failure itself that defines you, but how you respond to it.

2) Consistent growth

As I’ve journeyed toward success, one thing I’ve noticed is how much I’ve changed. I’m not the same person I was a year ago, or even six months back.

I’m always learning, evolving, and getting better. My skills have sharpened, my knowledge has expanded, and my insights have deepened.

Take writing, for example. When I first started, I struggled with structure and flow. But instead of giving up, I saw it as a challenge to overcome. I dove into books on writing, attended webinars, and sought feedback from seasoned writers.

Now, my writing has improved leaps and bounds. I can express my thoughts more clearly and captivate my readers more effectively.

And this growth isn’t limited to writing—it extends to every aspect of my life, both personal and professional.

If you’re noticing consistent improvement in your skills and understanding, that’s a subtle hint you’re on the path to significant success. It shows you’re dedicated to personal growth, a trait shared by many successful individuals.

3) Building a strong network

Success isn’t just about what you know; it’s also about who you know, right? That’s something we hear a lot, and it rings true.

Think about it. There’s power in diversity. Having a diverse network exposes you to fresh perspectives, helping you widen your outlook and get creative.

And here’s another hint of success in the making: if you’re always broadening and nurturing your network, that’s a sign you understand the importance of connections and actively use them for your growth.

4) Increasing self-discipline

Success and self-discipline go hand in hand. It’s the ability to do what needs to be done, even when you don’t feel like doing it.

If you’ve noticed an increase in your self-discipline lately, that’s a promising sign. Perhaps you’re sticking to your workout routine more consistently, or maybe you’re getting better at managing your time and meeting deadlines.

The fact is, self-discipline is a fundamental building block of success. It’s what keeps you moving forward, even when motivation wanes or obstacles arise.

Developing this trait isn’t easy. But the fact that you’re making strides towards it indicates that you’re on the right track to major success in life.

5) Comfortable with being uncomfortable

Outside your comfort zone is often where growth and breakthrough occur.

If you’re always testing your limits and chasing fresh challenges, that’s a fantastic sign. Maybe you’re experimenting with new approaches at work, tackling projects that push your skills, or exploring new destinations.

Being okay with feeling uneasy demonstrates resilience, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace change. These are all key qualities for finding success in life.

Make no mistake: it’s always through facing the unfamiliar that we expand our skills, broaden our perspectives, and move closer to our goals.

6) Genuine happiness in others’ success

In a world where competition often takes the spotlight, it’s easy to feel envious or resentful of others’ success.

But if you genuinely find yourself celebrating others’ achievements, that’s a lovely indicator that your own success is on the horizon.

This trait shows you understand the power of camaraderie and community, valuing them over rivalry. You see success as something abundant, not scarce, believing that another person’s win doesn’t mean a loss for you.

Feeling genuine happiness for others also helps foster a positive mindset—a crucial ingredient in the recipe for success.  

7) Embracing authenticity

There was a time when I was constantly striving to blend in, to meet others’ expectations, and to live up to a certain image. But as time passed, I realized this wasn’t getting me anywhere closer to success.

When I started embracing my true self, quirks and all, things began to shift. I discovered that people were drawn to my authenticity. Opportunities started finding their way to me, and I felt more content and accomplished.

Being authentic boils down to staying true to who you are and what you believe in. It means staying faithful to your values, speaking your mind openly, and carving your own path, even if it diverges from what others anticipate.

If you’re embracing your authenticity, that’s a clear sign you’re on the road to significant success. It demonstrates the bravery to be yourself in a world that often nudges us towards conformity. And that’s truly remarkable.

8) Welcoming criticism

At first glance, criticism might seem like an obstacle to success. But in reality, it’s often a stepping stone.

If you find yourself open to criticism and using it as a tool for improvement, then you’re already ahead of many.

Criticism, when taken constructively, gives us a different perspective, highlights our blind spots and helps us grow. It’s not always easy to accept, but it’s often the catalyst for improvement.

So don’t shy away from criticism. Instead, see it as an opportunity for growth and another sign you’re moving towards major success in life.

9) Becoming a lifelong learner

If you find yourself with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, always seeking to learn and grow, then you’re setting yourself up for success.

In today’s fast-paced world, the most successful people are those who never stop learning. They’re always updating their skills and knowledge, staying curious, and keeping an open mind.

Whether it’s reading books, taking online courses, attending seminars, or simply seeking out new experiences, being a lifelong learner can give you a significant edge.

10) Trusting your journey

At the end of the day, trusting your journey is paramount. Success doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all blueprint. It’s a unique path for each of us, filled with ups and downs, twists and turns.

If you’ve learned to trust in your journey, to have faith in your abilities and to believe in the process, then you’re already successful.

This trust shows that you understand success is not a destination, but a journey. It’s about making progress, not achieving perfection. And it’s this mindset that will ultimately lead you to major success in life.

Final thoughts: Success is a journey

In the grand scheme of things, success is a personal and unique journey, not a universal destination.

There’s a timeless quote from the legendary basketball coach John Wooden that says, “Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to do your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.”

This profound insight underscores the essence of true success. It’s not about measuring up to societal standards or competing with others. It’s about realizing your potential, growing continuously, and living authentically.

So, as you reflect on these subtle signs and continue on your path, remember that success is not an end point but a process. It’s the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.

It’s the courage to persist in the face of adversity. And most importantly, it’s about staying true to who you are.

In this journey called life, success is more about becoming than it is about achieving. So keep growing, keep striving and trust your journey. You’re on your way to major success in life.