Every year "Fortune" announces its list of the top 40 business people under the age of 40.
It's fascinating to see how much these individuals have accomplished in a short time, and how much impact they are making in the world. From new alternatives in transportation, sports, and personal fitness, to the entertainment, banking, and political arenas, their businesses are challenging tradition in the new economy.
What feelings come up for you when you read through the accomplishments of the 40 under 40?
Is it indifference?
Envy?
Discouragement?
Hope?
Maybe it's a mixture of all three?
There is one fact I know: I will never, ever make that list. (I've already aged out.) And I'm OK with that.
Why? Because I'm going through my life's journey at the pace that is right for me. I refuse to do it any other way.
Not making "the list" doesn't make you or me any less important than the 40 people who did.
Your real worth only comes from within you, not from a list.
"Not one drop of my self-worth depends on your acceptance of me." - Quincy Jones
As a leadership coach, I see a lot of women who are stuck in a rut, on the verge of burning out, yet, measuring their worth by comparing their "stats" to others.'
Lists like Fortune's have a way of making us feel we aren't living up to our full potentials.
Excuses and limiting stories flood our minds, and we start believing the voices that say, I'm just not cut out to do this; My boss hates me and keeps me down; I am not smart enough to compete in business.
Quiet those voices and stare down those fears. You are good enough, smart enough and competent enough to succeed.
Focus on your strengths and fully show up every day in everything you do.
Because the truth is, your potential and success is all up to you. If you don't show up physically and mentally, you will never produce your best work.
Among the interviews of the people who made the 40 under 40 list in 2014, this quote from Alexa von Tobel, Founder and CEO of LearnVest, says it all:
"Get up, dress up, show up. I think of it as my motto--get up with the energy to tackle every day, dress the part, and show up with your best A+ attitude." - Alexa von Tobel, Founder and CEO, LearnVest
It all begins with you. You've had the power all along.
Ignore those lists. Listen to your own wisdom. Then ask yourself, "How am I going to show up today?"
If you are ready to show up and shine the world with your lights, schedule a Clarity Call so we can discuss what your current challenges are, and how coaching might be a good option for you.
--
Nozomi Morgan, MBA, is a certified Executive Coach and the Founder and President of Michiki Morgan Worldwide LLC. Addition to coaching, she speaks and trains on leadership, career, professional development and cross-cultural business communication.
Visit www.nozomimorgan.com to learn more about Nozomi . There, you can download the free Leadership Discovery Tool. Follow Nozomi on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Google+.