EP 110 Success and Spirituality

The Universe has a radically different way to look at success than we do in the Western world. In this episode, I explore those differences, how I have lived experience of it and the five regrets of the dying.

From 1988 to 2005, I had a stellar career as a lawyer (I count my studies in this period as I did really well at University). Then in 2005, two things happened, I lost my job and I became pregnant with my third child. This was a massive crisis for me as I wasn't just losing my job, I was losing my career. I talk about this second burnout period in my life in my brand new book, Healing Burnout with the Angels, so If you want to know when the book is coming out, sign up for my newsletter with this link.

According to the Oxford dictionary, he definition of success is the accomplishment or an aim. In the West, that usually means wealth, fame or respect. For me, in 2005, two versions of success collided. The success I wanted to feel in my career and the success I wanted to feel as a mum. I wanted to be both the best lawyer in the world and the best mum in the world and sadly, the way the Western world is structured, both cannot be attained simultaneously.

The second part of the episode is about whether this Western world definition of success is really going to matter when you are on your death bed and the short answer is no.

In 2011, Bronnie Ware wrote a book called the five regrets of the dying. This was inspired by her work in palliative care. In the episode we explore these five regrets and then move to the most important question I believe we should ask ourselves: How do we make sure we live a life well lived? And what does that mean on a spiritual level? I share my answer at the end of the episode. I would love to know yours.

And if you need to redefine your version of success and you need some help, book a discovery call with me.