As you become successful, people know who you are. They recognize you
even though you may not know who they are. This means that the way you
present yourself in public is critical.
You may feel that you are under observation at all times. The higher
your level of success, the more people will keep tabs on what you’re
doing, how you’re doing it, and how they can benefit from it too.
Mistakes, bad habits, or acts of poor judgment will be noticed quickly
and may be highlighted or blown out of proportion by your adversaries.
You will find it harder to find time to be with your spouse, children
and other family members. They’ll complain because you’re not around
for all the celebrations, school performances and family gatherings the
way you used to be. They may not understand why your business dictates
that you leave before dawn for meetings and return well after everyone
is asleep. Friends may complain that they’re being neglected and that
you’ve become a snob.
You may question whether people invite you to social functions
because they really like you or because of who you are and what you can
do for them. You may find yourself resentful that everyone wants
something from you.
The pressure of being "on stage" all the time, and having to
put up with the constant demands of other people, may cause you to
question whether the hard work you put into being successful was worth
it. You may have expected to feel free, exhilarated, and able to take it
easy once you made it to the top. Instead, you may feel more confined,
trapped and let down. Your life is probably a lot more complicated, your
time is not your own, and you may wish you could go back to the old days
when you felt happier, more content and in control.
You can manage the stresses of success by preparing for the fact that
your life is going to be different and adjust your expectations and
behavior accordingly.
Clean up your
business image.
Project an image of self-confidence, self-assurance and competence at
all times. Your business image means your general appearance, quality of
communication and behavior even when you feel that you’re on your own
time, such as at the grocery store or at a social event. Be prepared to
suffer negative consequences if you have too many drinks or behave
inappropriately when you’re with others. You will be saying a lot
about yourself through your behavior, and it is important that what you
say is perceived in a positive light. Be sure you are projecting the
kind of image that builds your business and your reputation.
Set limits on
the demands of success.
If it is important to you to have some sort of personal life, and it
should be, make time for one. Just don’t expect to be available to do
all of the things you used to do. Identify your business priorities, say
"no" to requests that fall outside of them, and use the time
you have freed up to take better care of yourself or to enjoy the time
with your family and friends. Everyone will try to place demands upon
you as you become more successful. You must know when to say
"no".
Don’t be afraid to
downshift.
If your new level of success continues to be a disappointment, it’s
OK to make a change. Sometimes, this means looking for a new job or
selling your business. Don’t be afraid to pursue alternatives. You may
feel happier doing something else, and find that you prefer being less
of a celebrity. High levels of success are the stuff of dreams, but
they’re not for everyone. Know your limit and move on if life at the
top is not for you.
