The thrill of success

Josh Mehlman
26 September 2008

As part of a recent competition, we asked readers what motivated them to succeed.

It seems a lot of people are motivated by success itself – taking a punt, achieving goals, becoming financially independent. Readers said:

“Being a self-made man is my #1 motivation, I love what I do and I work hard to achieve success.”

“I am obsessed by turnover, profit and the thrill of the competition.”

“Self actualisation! Being the best in my field and becoming financially independent through the success of my business.”

Some readers are just small business thrillseekers who can’t get their kicks any other way.

“Hearing people say, ‘What a fabulous idea, I wish I’d thought of that!’ when I tell them what I do.”

“The kids. The wife. The money. The freedom. The BUZZ. The challenge. The people. The happy customers. Can’t quite put my finger on it!”

Another strong motivation is providing a better future for your children and keeping a balance between work and family life.

“Keeping my young family eating and playing together, having a lifestyle to work at home and not wanting to make a million bucks: that’s success!

“My four-year-old daughter’s future motivates me to be successful.”

“I’ve got my house on the line, three kids under five years and one year to break even. What better impetus to succeed?”

And in a variety of ways, readers are motivated by the desire to do something meaningful for other people.

“We strive to give customers the kind of treatment we would like to receive.”

“Clients contacting me to say that they have been successful in the treatment I have given them to stop smoking, lose weight, stop gambling or reduce stress.”

“Helping clients grow their businesses and get recognition for their work – it feels good in the hip pocket and the heart!”

Recognising these things are important to small business owners, we have kicked off a new section in the magazine.

Work | Life examines business in a social context: how can you run a profitable business that also gives back to the community? This month we look at peer-to-peer lending. Home | Life looks at balancing work with raising a family or other external commitments. To kick this section off, we take a look at family-friendly work practices

And from next month, our sustainability section will look at reducing your company’s environmental impact and building a greener future.

What would you like to see in the magazine? My inbox is always open.