True Success Begins when...

The spirit of giving back is the very essence of a successful life. It is the heritage of our deepest dreams and desires to succeed to such a level that once one has risen to the top, the greatest of those successful people devote a portion of their life to giving back to those who helped then along the way.

Oftentimes it takes someone a lifetime of striving for and achieving success before they stop to consider giving back. It is only in the wake of their own success that they consider giving back to those who helped them succeed. But what happens if, instead of waiting until the end of our lives, we begin giving back today? True success begins the very second we begin giving back and not a moment sooner. Monetary and professional success does not become a complete banquet of a life well lived until every dish is served—giving back is the very foundation of a successful life. It is the appetizer that comes before the main course of living a life of our dreams.

In the dog-eat-dog world we live in today, many of us only concern ourselves with making our star shine brightly while disregarding those around us. But there is a new dawn on our horizon and a new way of approaching life, personally and professionally. Giving. When we change our lens from taking to giving, an entire world opens up to us—one of pure creativity. Over the past few months, I have had some time to think. "Jennifer, what really matters in your life? To make the world better? Hell, to even make yourself better?" I've realized that it’s up to us to take that very first step to change. It’s up to us to offer a helping hand to those struggling to climb the ladder. 

During my self reflective time after my accident, I have realized that I have a good group around me willing to help me up. We stand on each other’s shoulders to elevate us to our ultimate accomplishments. This is success. Success is celebrating those around you and cheering them on to become their very best selves. In return, you will soon hear the cheers of those celebrating your journey. I encourage you to give back, give thanks, and give often. You'd be surprised with the results when you change your life lens from competition and comparison of others to cooperation with one another.