Let’s be honest. We often find ourselves lost in comparisons, measuring our progress against others. We get so caught up in this that we feel like we are failing at life. 

But guess what?

You might be more successful than you think. And it doesn’t always have to do with your bank account or career milestones. Intrigued?

Keep reading.

We’re about to unveil seven surprising signs of success that could have been under your nose this whole time. 

Let’s dive in. 

1) You embrace failure

Now, this one might surprise you.

Remember failure? That thing we’re often taught to avoid at all costs? Turns out, it might be a sign of your success.

Those who thrive are not immune to failure. In fact, they’ve likely faced more setbacks than most. The difference?

They see these experiences not as an end but as a stepping stone to growth.

Instead of hiding from failure, they embrace it. They understand that each misstep is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and bounce back stronger.

As Dr. Katherine King, a clinical psychologist, put it, “Failure can teach us what matters most to us; it can point to what we need to be successful.”

So, if you’ve had your fair share of knockdowns but continue to get back up – congratulations! You’re already demonstrating one of the key traits of successful individuals.

Don’t underestimate the power of resilience and the wisdom gained from failure – they’re hidden indicators of your success.

2) You prioritize self-improvement

Let me tell you a story.

Years ago, I found myself stuck in a job I hated.  But I realized it was actually a blessing in disguise.

The dissatisfaction I felt was actually a push towards self-improvement. It made me realize that I wanted to grow, to expand my horizons and challenge myself.

That desire led me to take the leap, switch careers, and venture into the unknown. Fast-forward to today, and I’m in a job that keeps me on my toes, teaches me something new every day, and aligns with my passions.

Why am I telling you this?

If you’re someone who seeks self-improvement, who craves growth and embraces change –  it’s a sign of success!

If growing, learning and developing isn’t a sign of success, I don’t know what is. 

3) You value relationships

Success. What does it mean to you?

For many, it’s a six-figure salary, a fancy car, or a big house. But let me share something.

The older I get, the more I realize that these things, while nice to have, are not the true measures of success. Instead, the relationships we nurture and the love we share are what really matter.

Research backs this up, too. The longest-ever study on happiness (by Harvard researchers) found that it’s not the money or the Range Rover that makes us happy and healthy; it’s positive relationships. 

You may not have the most prestigious job title or the fattest paycheck, but do you have friends who laugh with you, family who support you, or a partner who cherishes you?

That’s true success. 

4) You have a positive outlook

Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. It throws curveballs, and sometimes, it can be downright tough.

However, maintaining an optimistic attitude throughout is a huge sign of success. 

In fact, psychology tells us that positivity is not just a byproduct of success; it’s also a catalyst. A positive mindset may be linked to better psychological and physical well-being, lower rates of depression, and increased life span. 

So if you’re the kind of person who can stay hopeful in the face of adversity, who can smile when the going gets tough – you’re doing something right.

Your perspective dictates your reality. And a positive perspective? That’s one heck of a successful reality.

5) You practice gratitude

Gratitude is a simple practice with profound impacts.

As psychotherapist Amy Morin has noted, it helps relationships, improves physical and psychological health, boosts self-esteem, and increases mental strength.  

It’s nothing short of a superhabit. 

Do you make it a habit to appreciate the small blessings in life – the smell of fresh coffee in the morning, a heartfelt conversation with a friend, or the warmth of sunlight on your skin?

By acknowledging the goodness in your life, you’re fostering positivity and happiness. And ultimately, isn’t that what true success is?

Next time you count your blessings, count that as a sign of your success.

6) You help others

This is a big one. 

Success isn’t a one-way street. It’s not just about climbing to the top; it’s also about lifting others as you rise.

Are you someone who takes the time to help others? Do you lend a listening ear to a friend in need, offer your skills to aid a colleague, or take a moment to help a stranger?

This willingness to extend a helping hand is a sign of your success. It shows that you’re not only focused on your own growth but are also invested in the well-being of those around you.

Psychology shows that acts of kindness, big or small, not only benefit the receiver but also contribute to the giver’s sense of happiness and fulfillment.

7) You’re true to yourself

Here’s the most important thing I want you to take away.

True success isn’t about conforming to societal expectations or fitting into a predefined mold. It’s about being authentic, being true to yourself.

If you’re someone who values your own happiness over societal standards, who follows your own path even when it diverges from the crowd – you’re successful.

Embracing your success

If you’ve been nodding along as you read, take a moment to appreciate yourself.

Perhaps you’ve been underestimating your success all along. Maybe the societal definitions of success have clouded your view. But remember, true success is personal and multifaceted, stretching way beyond materialistic gains.

It’s time to shift the narrative.

Start by acknowledging these signs within you. Value your resilience, celebrate your personal growth, cherish your relationships, and embrace your authenticity.

Each of these aspects contributes to your unique version of success.

And remember, it’s perfectly okay if your definition of success doesn’t align with conventional standards. It’s your journey, after all.