11 answers
Janet
Student
California, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
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How can you overcome challenges ?
What leads to success
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11 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Let’s face it Janet, stuff happens! You can turn it into a learning lesson, an opportunity or you can gripe about it and keep doing what you are doing. This is true in business and in our home life. Only you can change your circumstances. You hold the key to your happiness and success…no one else. The bigger challenge is picking your battles. I always say, in the big scheme of things does it really matter? Sometimes you just have to let things slide. Other times, the issue needs to be tackled quickly so it doesn’t become a bigger problem. There is a fine line and let’s face it, we all struggle from time to time with hard decisions.
DON'T COMPLAIN: People don’t want to hear woe is me over and over again, especially if you do nothing about it. However, do ask for help and for suggestions from others that may have been in similar situations. You have to be willing to help yourself. People can’t do it for you.
FACE IT HEAD ON: Don’t beat around the bush. If you are having an issue, do something about it. Burying it does nothing but eat away at you. Don’t know what to do? Seek counseling. Many companies provide free counseling services as a part of your HR package. Try something. If that doesn’t work, try something else. Do anything but the same thing that previously didn’t work.
STAY POSITIVE: When you are worried about something it’s hard to stay positive, but think about the good things that could come from the difficult decision you have to make or the hard conversation you have to have.
BE REALISTIC: Realize you may not get the outcome you want, but rather we sometimes get what we need. Do you have some growing to do before you get what you want? Sometimes the timing isn’t right because there is something better and we just need to be patient.
DON'T RETALIATE: When someone expresses that they are struggling, don’t come back with, “You think that’s hard… let me tell you my story.” Everyone has had something hard in their life. It’s fine to let them know you can relate, but be helpful with your comments and stories.
LEAVE EMOTIONS OUT: When dealing with others, we sometimes forget that there is more than just the logical side. Most people make decisions because of emotions whether they believe it or not. Past experiences or fears can play a part. Sometimes in order to remove the obstacle you have to digger deeper into the real reasons for objections and overcome that issue first.
BREAK IT DOWN: Always keep in mind the end objective. Sometimes the bigger obstacle has smaller obstacles to overcome. When thinking about challenges, break them down and tackle them in smaller pieces.
Hope this will be helpful Janet
DON'T COMPLAIN: People don’t want to hear woe is me over and over again, especially if you do nothing about it. However, do ask for help and for suggestions from others that may have been in similar situations. You have to be willing to help yourself. People can’t do it for you.
FACE IT HEAD ON: Don’t beat around the bush. If you are having an issue, do something about it. Burying it does nothing but eat away at you. Don’t know what to do? Seek counseling. Many companies provide free counseling services as a part of your HR package. Try something. If that doesn’t work, try something else. Do anything but the same thing that previously didn’t work.
STAY POSITIVE: When you are worried about something it’s hard to stay positive, but think about the good things that could come from the difficult decision you have to make or the hard conversation you have to have.
BE REALISTIC: Realize you may not get the outcome you want, but rather we sometimes get what we need. Do you have some growing to do before you get what you want? Sometimes the timing isn’t right because there is something better and we just need to be patient.
DON'T RETALIATE: When someone expresses that they are struggling, don’t come back with, “You think that’s hard… let me tell you my story.” Everyone has had something hard in their life. It’s fine to let them know you can relate, but be helpful with your comments and stories.
LEAVE EMOTIONS OUT: When dealing with others, we sometimes forget that there is more than just the logical side. Most people make decisions because of emotions whether they believe it or not. Past experiences or fears can play a part. Sometimes in order to remove the obstacle you have to digger deeper into the real reasons for objections and overcome that issue first.
BREAK IT DOWN: Always keep in mind the end objective. Sometimes the bigger obstacle has smaller obstacles to overcome. When thinking about challenges, break them down and tackle them in smaller pieces.
Hope this will be helpful Janet
Thank You Benjamin. The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
Doc Frick
Jeff Sloan
Software engineer - firmware Retired
103
Answers
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Janet,
Very, very good question!
You have already received a lot of good advice! I will add the immortal words of Douglas Adams, "Don't panic!" There will be times when a challenge seems overwhelming. A challenge is simply a problem and a problem statement. You need to solve something.
Start by taking a deep breath and trying to look at it objectively. Most, if not all, big problems can be broken down into smaller, more easily solvable sub problems. Then, you can tackle each small problem to eventually meet the entire challenge. One method that I used throughout my career was to talk to a friend or colleague. Many times, if I couldn't figure out the solution, I would describe, in gory detail, the issue, and I do mean gory detail. I would explain and step through each line of code. Almost every time the answer would come to me. If not, the fresh eyes always found the solution. I was taught that trick by one of my first team leads who was technically brilliant! He saw me struggling with a problem, came in to my office, sat down and asked me to explain the code. I started to give him a general overview of the code and he stopped me. He told me to go line by line in detail and tell him what's happening. Within a few minutes, I saw the answer!
Almost every challenge can be meet and solved. Just try to not get overwhelmed!
Take a deep breath
Try to break down the challenge into smaller parts
Explain the problem/solution to someone else in gory detail
Relax, you will meet your challenges!
Very, very good question!
You have already received a lot of good advice! I will add the immortal words of Douglas Adams, "Don't panic!" There will be times when a challenge seems overwhelming. A challenge is simply a problem and a problem statement. You need to solve something.
Start by taking a deep breath and trying to look at it objectively. Most, if not all, big problems can be broken down into smaller, more easily solvable sub problems. Then, you can tackle each small problem to eventually meet the entire challenge. One method that I used throughout my career was to talk to a friend or colleague. Many times, if I couldn't figure out the solution, I would describe, in gory detail, the issue, and I do mean gory detail. I would explain and step through each line of code. Almost every time the answer would come to me. If not, the fresh eyes always found the solution. I was taught that trick by one of my first team leads who was technically brilliant! He saw me struggling with a problem, came in to my office, sat down and asked me to explain the code. I started to give him a general overview of the code and he stopped me. He told me to go line by line in detail and tell him what's happening. Within a few minutes, I saw the answer!
Almost every challenge can be meet and solved. Just try to not get overwhelmed!
Jeff recommends the following next steps:
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
607
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Hey Janet-
I found- over time- that asking yourself the following can help. "Can I change it or can I control it". If you answer no to those questions with whatever you are going through, the next step is to see if someone around you can help with the issue. At that point, is it really something that you should be spending your time and energy on. I find too many people dwell on things they can't actually control.
If the thing you are trying to overcome can't be ignored, try breaking the problem into smaller parts and see if you can tackle a little piece.
You've got this.
I found- over time- that asking yourself the following can help. "Can I change it or can I control it". If you answer no to those questions with whatever you are going through, the next step is to see if someone around you can help with the issue. At that point, is it really something that you should be spending your time and energy on. I find too many people dwell on things they can't actually control.
If the thing you are trying to overcome can't be ignored, try breaking the problem into smaller parts and see if you can tackle a little piece.
You've got this.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6180
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Subject: Empowering Strategies for College Success
Dear Janet,
Navigating the Path to Triumph in College
Achieving success in college is a journey that demands resilience, determination, and the application of effective strategies. Here are some vital steps to help you conquer challenges:
Be accepting and forgiving not rejecting, not holding grudges against People. Control your temper with forethought and careful consideration.
Establish Defined Goals: Outline your academic and personal ambitions to provide yourself with a sense of direction and drive.
Reach Out for Assistance: Never hesitate to seek help from professors, advisors, tutors, or counseling services when encountering difficulties.
Master Time Management: Cultivate efficient time management abilities to handle your academic responsibilities effectively.
Maintain Organization: Stay on top of assignments, deadlines, and crucial dates to prevent feeling inundated.
Prioritize Self-Care: Ensure your physical and mental wellness by getting adequate rest, exercise, and relaxation.
Cultivate Positivity: Keep a positive outlook and have faith in your capacity to surmount hurdles.
Embrace Setbacks as Lessons: Rather than viewing setbacks as failures, see them as opportunities for growth and learning.
Create a Supportive Circle: Surround yourself with friends, family, or peers who can offer encouragement and support during challenging times.
The Recipe for College Success:
Success in college is typically a blend of factors that contribute to academic achievement and personal growth. Here are some essential components that lead to success in college:
Commitment and Perseverance: Investing effort and remaining steadfast in pursuing your goals is key to success.
Adopt Effective Study Techniques: Cultivating effective study techniques such as active learning, time management, and seeking help when needed can boost academic performance.
Engage Actively in Learning: Active participation in classes, asking questions, and engaging with course material can enhance understanding and retention of knowledge.
Network and Foster Relationships: Establishing relationships with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field can pave the way for mentorship, internships, and career advancement.
Embrace Adaptability: Being adaptable and receptive to new experiences, challenges, and perspectives can assist you in successfully navigating the intricacies of college life.
Set Feasible Expectations: Setting realistic goals and expectations for yourself can avert burnout and keep you motivated throughout your college journey.
Pursue Continuous Learning: Adopting a mindset of continuous learning beyond the classroom can stimulate personal growth and development.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard University: Harvard University offers invaluable insights on conquering challenges and achieving success in college through its academic resources, student support services, and research-based strategies.
Stanford University: Stanford University provides advice on effective study habits, time management skills, and personal development strategies that contribute to success in college.
U.S. Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education’s publications on student success, academic achievement, and support services provide evidence-based methods for conquering challenges and flourishing in a college environment.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Dear Janet,
Navigating the Path to Triumph in College
Achieving success in college is a journey that demands resilience, determination, and the application of effective strategies. Here are some vital steps to help you conquer challenges:
Be accepting and forgiving not rejecting, not holding grudges against People. Control your temper with forethought and careful consideration.
Establish Defined Goals: Outline your academic and personal ambitions to provide yourself with a sense of direction and drive.
Reach Out for Assistance: Never hesitate to seek help from professors, advisors, tutors, or counseling services when encountering difficulties.
Master Time Management: Cultivate efficient time management abilities to handle your academic responsibilities effectively.
Maintain Organization: Stay on top of assignments, deadlines, and crucial dates to prevent feeling inundated.
Prioritize Self-Care: Ensure your physical and mental wellness by getting adequate rest, exercise, and relaxation.
Cultivate Positivity: Keep a positive outlook and have faith in your capacity to surmount hurdles.
Embrace Setbacks as Lessons: Rather than viewing setbacks as failures, see them as opportunities for growth and learning.
Create a Supportive Circle: Surround yourself with friends, family, or peers who can offer encouragement and support during challenging times.
The Recipe for College Success:
Success in college is typically a blend of factors that contribute to academic achievement and personal growth. Here are some essential components that lead to success in college:
Commitment and Perseverance: Investing effort and remaining steadfast in pursuing your goals is key to success.
Adopt Effective Study Techniques: Cultivating effective study techniques such as active learning, time management, and seeking help when needed can boost academic performance.
Engage Actively in Learning: Active participation in classes, asking questions, and engaging with course material can enhance understanding and retention of knowledge.
Network and Foster Relationships: Establishing relationships with professors, classmates, and professionals in your field can pave the way for mentorship, internships, and career advancement.
Embrace Adaptability: Being adaptable and receptive to new experiences, challenges, and perspectives can assist you in successfully navigating the intricacies of college life.
Set Feasible Expectations: Setting realistic goals and expectations for yourself can avert burnout and keep you motivated throughout your college journey.
Pursue Continuous Learning: Adopting a mindset of continuous learning beyond the classroom can stimulate personal growth and development.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard University: Harvard University offers invaluable insights on conquering challenges and achieving success in college through its academic resources, student support services, and research-based strategies.
Stanford University: Stanford University provides advice on effective study habits, time management skills, and personal development strategies that contribute to success in college.
U.S. Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education’s publications on student success, academic achievement, and support services provide evidence-based methods for conquering challenges and flourishing in a college environment.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Kevin Minson
CS-Digital Technology Champion II
3
Answers
DeKalb, Illinois
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Overcoming challenges in the workforce and achieving success requires a combination of skills, strategies, and a positive mindset. Here are some key ways to overcome challenges and enhance your chances of success:
1. Develop a growth mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Believe in your ability to develop new skills and find solutions to problems.
2. Set clear goals: Define your career goals and create a plan to achieve them. Break down big goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and motivated.
3. Enhance your skills: Continuously develop and improve your skills. Identify areas where you need to grow and seek opportunities for learning and development. This could include attending training programs, taking online courses, or seeking mentorship.
4. Build a strong support network: Surround yourself with supportive colleagues, mentors, and friends who can provide guidance and encouragement. Seek advice from those who have faced similar challenges and have achieved success in their careers.
5. Communicate effectively: Develop strong communication skills, both verbal and written. This will help you express your ideas clearly, collaborate effectively with others, and resolve conflicts.
6. Embrace innovation and adaptability: The workplace is constantly evolving, so be open to change and adapt quickly. Embrace new technologies and innovative approaches to problem-solving.
7. Stay resilient: Challenges and setbacks are inevitable. Develop resilience by maintaining a positive attitude, staying motivated, and bouncing back from failures. Learn from your mistakes and use them as stepping stones for future success.
8. Seek feedback and learn from it: Actively seek feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and clients. Use feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Be open to constructive criticism and implement necessary changes.
9. Take initiative: Be proactive and take ownership of your work. Look for opportunities to contribute beyond your assigned tasks. Show initiative by taking on additional responsibilities and proposing innovative ideas.
10. Maintain work-life balance: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Prioritize self-care, manage your time effectively, and maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. This will help you stay energized and focused.
Remember, success in the workforce is a journey, and challenges are a part of that journey. By adopting these strategies and maintaining a positive mindset, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
1. Develop a growth mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Believe in your ability to develop new skills and find solutions to problems.
2. Set clear goals: Define your career goals and create a plan to achieve them. Break down big goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and motivated.
3. Enhance your skills: Continuously develop and improve your skills. Identify areas where you need to grow and seek opportunities for learning and development. This could include attending training programs, taking online courses, or seeking mentorship.
4. Build a strong support network: Surround yourself with supportive colleagues, mentors, and friends who can provide guidance and encouragement. Seek advice from those who have faced similar challenges and have achieved success in their careers.
5. Communicate effectively: Develop strong communication skills, both verbal and written. This will help you express your ideas clearly, collaborate effectively with others, and resolve conflicts.
6. Embrace innovation and adaptability: The workplace is constantly evolving, so be open to change and adapt quickly. Embrace new technologies and innovative approaches to problem-solving.
7. Stay resilient: Challenges and setbacks are inevitable. Develop resilience by maintaining a positive attitude, staying motivated, and bouncing back from failures. Learn from your mistakes and use them as stepping stones for future success.
8. Seek feedback and learn from it: Actively seek feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and clients. Use feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Be open to constructive criticism and implement necessary changes.
9. Take initiative: Be proactive and take ownership of your work. Look for opportunities to contribute beyond your assigned tasks. Show initiative by taking on additional responsibilities and proposing innovative ideas.
10. Maintain work-life balance: Take care of your physical and mental well-being. Prioritize self-care, manage your time effectively, and maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. This will help you stay energized and focused.
Remember, success in the workforce is a journey, and challenges are a part of that journey. By adopting these strategies and maintaining a positive mindset, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
Ingrid Tran
Human Resources
7
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Ingrid’s Answer
When facing challenges, it feels like what's in front of you is too big or too scary, and it will make you want to stop. Take a deep breath, write how you're feeling down and remember that stress, intimidation, and fear are all just feelings. Let them flow through you.
Once you're done feeling, write out what your challenge is and what specifically you're struggling with.
I really enjoy using the internet to help me learn more about my challenge. It helps me understand what others have done to overcome that challenge or what may not have worked. It also helps to do research from credible sources about your challenge. Consider the source and if it's relevant to you.
Here comes the stage for planning. With your research in mind, draft up a plan that makes sense for you. Create little goals to slowly work through the plan.
It may help to find someone to hold you accountable or to check in with you on your plan.
If your plan is not working, re-work your plan and try again. Repeat this until you find a plan that aligns to you and your capabilities.
Remember, you're human and you're doing the best you can. Wishing you the best on your journey!
Once you're done feeling, write out what your challenge is and what specifically you're struggling with.
I really enjoy using the internet to help me learn more about my challenge. It helps me understand what others have done to overcome that challenge or what may not have worked. It also helps to do research from credible sources about your challenge. Consider the source and if it's relevant to you.
Here comes the stage for planning. With your research in mind, draft up a plan that makes sense for you. Create little goals to slowly work through the plan.
It may help to find someone to hold you accountable or to check in with you on your plan.
If your plan is not working, re-work your plan and try again. Repeat this until you find a plan that aligns to you and your capabilities.
Remember, you're human and you're doing the best you can. Wishing you the best on your journey!
Mary Ann Higgs
Communications, Training, and People Development
31
Answers
Hayward, California
Updated
Mary Ann’s Answer
Janet,
I would guess that you already know the answer to this question. You overcome challenges everyday. Some challenges are small and some are large. But, the way you overcome challenges probably follow a pattern. It probably goes something like this.
1. Challenge shows up
2. You ask some questions and gather information to learn more
3. You look at how this challenge creates a obstacle to what you're trying to get done
4. You come up with a plan to deal with the challenge and achieve your goal.
I know I made that sound really simple. But, take a minute to think about how you currently deal with challenges and that will tell you the pattern you've established. Once you understand your pattern, you can make small changes to more easily and quickly address challenges.
As you go through school, your career, and for that matter, life, you will come across challenges big and small. My advice to you is understand your pattern for addressing challenges and understand how you learn new things. I've already talked about identifying your pattern above. When I say "understand how you learn new things", throughout life and your career, the world will continue to change and offer new opportunities. In order to take advantage of those opportunities, you need to understand how you learn and process new information. In school, you are constantly learning new information. Do you learn by reading? Do you learn by listening to a teacher talk about a new concept? Do you learn by doing something like testing things in a lab? Do you learn by teaching someone else? If you understand how you learn, when a challenge comes up, you can draw on the knowledge for how you learn to gather and process the information you need to move through the challenge.
Hope this helps. Good luck!
I would guess that you already know the answer to this question. You overcome challenges everyday. Some challenges are small and some are large. But, the way you overcome challenges probably follow a pattern. It probably goes something like this.
1. Challenge shows up
2. You ask some questions and gather information to learn more
3. You look at how this challenge creates a obstacle to what you're trying to get done
4. You come up with a plan to deal with the challenge and achieve your goal.
I know I made that sound really simple. But, take a minute to think about how you currently deal with challenges and that will tell you the pattern you've established. Once you understand your pattern, you can make small changes to more easily and quickly address challenges.
As you go through school, your career, and for that matter, life, you will come across challenges big and small. My advice to you is understand your pattern for addressing challenges and understand how you learn new things. I've already talked about identifying your pattern above. When I say "understand how you learn new things", throughout life and your career, the world will continue to change and offer new opportunities. In order to take advantage of those opportunities, you need to understand how you learn and process new information. In school, you are constantly learning new information. Do you learn by reading? Do you learn by listening to a teacher talk about a new concept? Do you learn by doing something like testing things in a lab? Do you learn by teaching someone else? If you understand how you learn, when a challenge comes up, you can draw on the knowledge for how you learn to gather and process the information you need to move through the challenge.
Hope this helps. Good luck!
Michael U
Consultant
2
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Janet,
Don't be afraid to use the support system around you. Parents, friends, mentors or anyone in your life you can rely on. Sometimes people are uncomfortable with asking for help for several reasons but as long as you have someone in your corner you can rely on or confide in, it's best to take advantage of that support system.
Don't be afraid to use the support system around you. Parents, friends, mentors or anyone in your life you can rely on. Sometimes people are uncomfortable with asking for help for several reasons but as long as you have someone in your corner you can rely on or confide in, it's best to take advantage of that support system.
Gobind Gopan
Cinematographer
1
Answer
Kollam, Kerala, India
Updated
Gobind’s Answer
As a cinematographer, overcoming challenges involves resilience, creativity, and collaboration. I approach obstacles with an open mind, seeking innovative solutions and drawing inspiration from my surroundings. Communication and teamwork are crucial; I rely on my crew's support and expertise to navigate through difficulties. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, I stay adaptable and focused on achieving our collective vision. Each hurdle becomes a chance to elevate our craft and tell more compelling stories through the lens.
Joseph Ford
170
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Now that's a question for everyone. Challenges Challenges this is something you will be faced with in every step of your life. Here is my list of overcoming challenges.
1 - Remember it all comes down to U, The choices you make are your own so think before you react.
2 - Limit your friends. I always say your most trusted friends not including family should be on 1 hand. If you go over to the 2nd hand there not your friend.
3 - Make time for yourself. Sit in a quiet space for 30mins to relax your mind and just breathe in and breathe out.
4 - Read. In this social media world and culture take time to read a book.
5 - never lose FAITH. Your strength is in your Faith and no one can take that away from you.
1 - Remember it all comes down to U, The choices you make are your own so think before you react.
2 - Limit your friends. I always say your most trusted friends not including family should be on 1 hand. If you go over to the 2nd hand there not your friend.
3 - Make time for yourself. Sit in a quiet space for 30mins to relax your mind and just breathe in and breathe out.
4 - Read. In this social media world and culture take time to read a book.
5 - never lose FAITH. Your strength is in your Faith and no one can take that away from you.
Gregory Noll
Radiologic Technologist
1
Answer
Flower Mound, Texas
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
All of the above sounds great and for sure cultivates a person for success.
To answer your question of what leads to success?
Above all, failure and failing many times for some. Success comes from failing but you keep going. Adapt and learn from your failures and you will succeed in whatever you choose to do. Do not compare your success to others. Use others as inspiration but do not devalue yourself because of your perception. Kind of like working out at a gym. Success happens on different levels for each individual.
Building relationships is also pivotal. Be dependable and build trust with people. Be kind. You never know who's watching and who might think, "that kid doing so and so, he/she did great, let's get them on our team!"
Be patient. Rome wasn't built in a day lol.
Believe in yourself, especially when self doubt sets in. Let the last voice that speaks to you say, I can do this. Even if you don't know how you can, let the last words you say to yourself be positive and affirmative.
Get a mentor who you trust as much as you trust a family member. You'll need the truth that some may feel bad to say but you'll need to know in a supportive way. One who genuinely cares seeing you grow and succeed.
Finally as I am still learning myself at 41, Success is not a destination. It will not be what you imagined it to be. It will be a journey and you'll know you've arrived when you feel it. It won't be marked by a socital standard or by popularity. It will be marked by the impact you had on others and the world around you I would almost bet my hand on it :).
To answer your question of what leads to success?
Above all, failure and failing many times for some. Success comes from failing but you keep going. Adapt and learn from your failures and you will succeed in whatever you choose to do. Do not compare your success to others. Use others as inspiration but do not devalue yourself because of your perception. Kind of like working out at a gym. Success happens on different levels for each individual.
Building relationships is also pivotal. Be dependable and build trust with people. Be kind. You never know who's watching and who might think, "that kid doing so and so, he/she did great, let's get them on our team!"
Be patient. Rome wasn't built in a day lol.
Believe in yourself, especially when self doubt sets in. Let the last voice that speaks to you say, I can do this. Even if you don't know how you can, let the last words you say to yourself be positive and affirmative.
Get a mentor who you trust as much as you trust a family member. You'll need the truth that some may feel bad to say but you'll need to know in a supportive way. One who genuinely cares seeing you grow and succeed.
Finally as I am still learning myself at 41, Success is not a destination. It will not be what you imagined it to be. It will be a journey and you'll know you've arrived when you feel it. It won't be marked by a socital standard or by popularity. It will be marked by the impact you had on others and the world around you I would almost bet my hand on it :).