The Ramblings of an Entrepreneur - Jan 2026

What is Success?

I was having an internal conversation the other day that stemmed from a recent event - going over high-school courses with my nephew. At the moment he knows what he wants to do; has a goal. And in my head, I was having a similar conversation with my niece (not yet in high-school). She loves theatre (they both do) and in this internal conversation it was my reaction to her saying she wants to go into the Arts/Theatre when she graduates. My original response was, what if you are not successful? 

But I started thinking…. Maybe this should be rephrased. 

Gut reaction of ‘what is success?’ Lots of money. But, what if that is not what success is to her? 

Success could be happiness, could be fulfilling a lifelong goal. She could volunteer at a local theatre and teach the younger generation. Maybe being in a play twice a year could be her target for success. Possibly getting the lead once a year could be it. Paid or unpaid. 

Going through my nephews course options, I realized how much I wish I had taken some art courses. I love to paint. Is it my job? No. But I have fun doing it and it brings me happiness (& a giant mess of paint everywhere - whoops!) 

I think we need to widen our definition of success when guiding the younger generation. Quite honestly, when speaking to ourselves as well. I’m currently sitting in my office looking out into the backyard watching the squirrels.  I have heat. I have food in the kitchen. I have a bed to sleep on and animals to snuggle with.  I have opportunities to read, paint, or write. I have friends & family to call when I need them, to hang out with, to be there for. I have a husband who loves me (& puts up with my crazy shenanigans). I own my own business and create my own hours. I’d say I’m pretty successful. 

My response and guidance is the same regardless of the definition of success - have a backup plan. Taking some sort of business/office courses are usually always helpful. Opens opportunities for admin or reception jobs. Full or part time. Also helps if she decides to run her own theatre or dance company. 

So, less ‘What if you aren’t successful?’ and more - ‘What can you do to help yourself to reach your goal while still paying the bills?’ Because the truth is - money is essential unfortunately. 

Hopefully I remember this when the time comes to have the conversation in real life 🙂

Thank you for reading my current ramblings…

*Kathleen

January 2026