What is success @ work?

The shift towards purpose-driven careers and lives

Christopher Gower on Unsplash

I have been thinking about this for some time now: In this period of continuous change, what does 'success' truly mean in the workplace? Is it mostly material success? Or is it something deeper—a sense of purpose that aligns with our core values?

Through recent conversations with many people, it appears I am not alone in asking these questions, and the responses I received not only highlight these uncertainties but also reinforce them.

The workplace is undergoing a noticeable shift. We see the rise—and continued preference for—remote work, we saw the 'Great Resignation,' and a growing desire for careers that create meaningful impact.

As I work on my book-in-progress, Peak Pursuit: Essays on Curiosity, Growth, and Change, I witness firsthand how this quest for purpose is reshaping both personal and professional journeys.

From what I observe, younger generations are redefining success—prioritizing mission-driven companies and passion projects over traditional stability. And they are not alone. Even mid-career professionals and seasoned executives are stepping back, reassessing their legacies, and seeking a deeper sense of fulfilment.

So, what is success and growth in today’s day and age?

Through my observations and the lens of Peak Pursuit, I have learnt that curiosity and purpose are the twin engines of sustainable growth. While curiosity ignites the spark, pushing us to question the status quo and explore uncharted territories; purpose provides the compass that channels curiosity into meaningful action and lasting impact.

Growth is not about climbing a predetermined ladder; it is about adaptability, resilience, and building something that lasts. It means embracing the unknown, balancing short-term pivots with long-term vision, and crafting a legacy that truly resonates.

This journey is often lit by the stories of those who dared to redefine their paths. Take, for example, a former technology consultant I recently spoke with—she left a successful career to launch a social enterprise providing clean water solutions to rural communities. 'I felt like my skills could be used for something more meaningful than just increasing corporate profits,' she shared. 'Now, I wake up every day knowing I am directly impacting lives.'

Her story, and many others like it, illustrate the power of aligning purpose with action—proving that growth is not a linear climb, but a diverse landscape of meaningful contributions.

Having conversations like these has made writing Peak Pursuits a journey of discovery—a non-linear path filled with unexpected insights. It mirrors my own search for purpose, unfolding in layers and evolving with time and experience.

Just as my journey has been shaped by curiosity and purpose, I invite you to ask yourself: What truly matters to you in your work? What small step can you take today to align your actions with your values?

Take a moment to reflect on what success truly means to you—not as defined by societal expectations, but by your own inner compass.

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As I continue working on Peak Pursuit, I will share more glimpses into the process—the challenges, the discoveries, and the evolving perspectives shaping its pages. My goal is to create a dialogue, offering a space for reflection and inspiration as we all navigate the search for purpose in our work and lives.